Gretchen Whitmer Tries to Distance Herself From Trump Amid Backlash

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said her appearance at the Oval Office was not an "endorsement" of President Donald Trump, as the Democrat has faced backlash for her latest White House visit.

Whitmer appeared alongside Trump on Wednesday after delivering a speech in which she said she understood some of "the motivation" behind the president's now largely paused global tariff plans.

Newsweek has contacted Whitmer's office for comment via email.

Whitmer is considered a potential Democratic candidate for president in 2028. Her decision to work across the aisle with Trump could alienate some Democratic voters, or broaden her appeal ahead of a possible White House bid.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer looks on as President Donald Trump signs executive orders in the Oval Office of the White House on April 09, 2025 in Washington, DC. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images