Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer stated that former President Donald Trump was instrumental in securing a significant fighter jet mission for her state, a project she was unable to finalize during the Biden administration. Whitmer made the remarks during an appearance on California Gov. Gavin Newsom's podcast, "This is Gavin Newsom."
The mission involves replacing the retiring A-10 Warthog aircraft at Selfridge Air National Guard Base with 21 new F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets. This initiative is part of a modernization plan for the base, including infrastructure upgrades intended to create jobs and enhance training opportunities.
Trump announced details of the new fighter jet mission in April 2025 at an event at the Michigan base. He described the F-15EX Eagle II as the "best there is anywhere in the world" and stated it would keep Selfridge at the forefront of North American air power.
Following Whitmer's comments, a White House spokesperson for Trump stated, "While Joe Biden’s weak policies neglected our military, President Trump saved Selfridge Air National Guard Base, a crucial pillar of North American air defense; rebuilt our military; and restored readiness and lethality to our US Armed Forces."
Whitmer acknowledged the political realities of working with individuals who may not be close allies, even if it is not a preferred arrangement. She also recalled an instance in April 2025 during an Oval Office meeting with Trump where she was photographed with a folder obscuring her face, an action she later explained as a desire not to have her picture taken.
Despite past political disagreements, Trump had praised Whitmer at the time of the Oval Office meeting, calling her a "very good person."
Previously, the White House under Trump had also highlighted Whitmer's efforts in manufacturing, noting the impact of tariffs and deregulation in bringing jobs to Michigan.