In a surprising admission that underscores the stark contrast in leadership, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a prominent Democrat, publicly credited President Donald Trump with securing a vital fighter jet mission for her state. This crucial project, she revealed, had stalled under the Biden administration, highlighting once again where genuine leadership lies when it comes to delivering for American communities and bolstering national security.
Speaking on California Governor Gavin Newsom's podcast, a platform hardly known for praising conservative victories, Whitmer candidly confessed her struggle to advance the Selfridge Air National Guard Base fighter jet mission under the current White House. "I tried to get that done under the Biden administration, couldn't get over the finish line, but I got it done with him," Whitmer stated, referring to President Trump. That's a huge deal to Michigan, she emphasized. It's a statement that cuts through the political rhetoric, acknowledging the tangible results of an America First approach.
The project in question, known as Mission Next, is set to replace the aging A-10 Warthog aircraft at Selfridge with 21 cutting-edge F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets. This modernization effort, as described by the National Guard's website, promises significant construction and infrastructure upgrades, translating into vital jobs and enhanced training opportunities for Michigan.
President Trump himself detailed the arrival of these advanced aircraft in April 2025 during a speech to National Guard members at the Michigan base. "Fresh off the line. That means they are brand new," Trump proudly declared. "This is where they're going to be for a long time. And I saw one of them, flew over my head, and I said, 'What the hell is that?' That plane has serious power. So, this is the best there is anywhere in the world, the F-15EX Eagle II. This will keep Selfridge at the cutting edge of Northern American air power."
The Trump White House wasted no time in highlighting this undeniable win. White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales affirmed, "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 U.S. Armed Forces." She continued, leaving no doubt about the path forward, "With President Trump as commander in chief, the United States Military will continue to lead the world in power, prestige, and might."
President Donald Trump arrives to speak to members of the Michigan National Guard at Selfridge Air National Guard Base April 29, 2025, in Harrison Township, Mich.
Whitmer's acknowledgment, however grudging, is not entirely new. She was previously seen attempting to hide her face during an Oval Office meeting with President Trump, a moment that went viral. Yet, she later admitted she simply didn't want her picture taken and even called Trump a "very good person," despite their past political sparring. It seems even the staunchest opponents find themselves forced to concede when President Trump's America First agenda delivers tangible results.
This pattern of Democrat governors talking about fixing American manufacturing while President Trump actually delivers was noted earlier this year. Kush Desai, a White House spokesperson, previously pointed out that Trump is "delivering with the same agenda of tariffs, deregulation." This latest revelation from Governor Whitmer is a powerful testament to the effectiveness of the America First vision: prioritizing national defense, creating jobs, and ensuring America's military remains unrivaled, regardless of who occupies the White House at any given moment. It’s a clear message to voters about who truly fights for the American people.
