• Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer calls for bipartisan collaboration with Donald Trump.
• Whitmer warns of potential adverse effects of proposed tariffs on the auto industry.
• She aims to find common ground while navigating a divided state legislature.
• Whitmer prepares to deliver a significant speech focusing on economic policy.
• The governor emphasizes her unique political landscape compared to other Democrat leaders.

LANSING, Mich. — In her upcoming remarks at the Detroit Auto Show, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer plans to extend an olive branch to President-elect Donald Trump, advocating for a collaborative approach between Republicans and Democrats to address pressing issues affecting her state. This speech marks her first major address since Trump’s election victory, where she aims to emphasize the necessity of cooperation in light of the divided political landscape in Michigan, where voters notably supported Trump in the last election. Extracts shared with the Associated Press reveal that Whitmer will appeal to her “friends” in the GOP, calling for mutual understanding and working together for solutions.

Whitmer's address will highlight her concerns regarding Trump’s proposed tariffs, particularly the potential fallout on Michigan’s vital auto industry. “I’m not opposed to tariffs outright, but we can’t treat them like a ‘one size fits all’ solution,” she plans to assert, according to HuffPost. She is especially wary that the proposed tariffs, which include a 25% tax on Canadian and Mexican goods, could stifle the supply chains crucial to the automotive sector, raising costs on consumers. “Every time a Michigan auto part crosses over the border and gets taxed, those costs will be passed on to you at the dealership,” she emphasizes.

During a recent interview, Whitmer confirmed her intention to meet with Trump soon, as she looks to align on common interests for the state. “The people of Michigan elected us both twice, just two years apart, and I suspect we can find common ground on some things, and that’s my job,” she stated. This willingness to collaborate is somewhat unique among her Democratic peers, many of whom may not share the same political circumstances that Whitmer faces, including a Republican-controlled House in Michigan.

In contrast with numerous Democrats who may take a more oppositional stance toward the incoming administration, Whitmer's approach leans towards seeking partnership, reminiscent of her earlier bipartisan successes during her tenure, which include collaborating on significant issues like auto insurance reform. As Whitmer prepares to navigate the uncharted waters of a Republican presidency, she remains focused on prioritizing the needs of her constituents while being open to compromise, a delicate balance that could influence her prospects as a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential race.

For more on Whitmer's vision for collaboration and her thoughts on the evolving political picture, visit AP News.