Whitmer pushes back on Trump’s tariff threats, cites Canada ties

During a visit to the Detroit Auto Show, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer voiced concern about proposed tariffs. (Source: Instagram/gewhitmer)

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is voicing concerns over president-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on Canada, warning they could hit both sides of the border where it hurts the most — the wallet.

Speaking Wednesday at the Detroit Auto Show, Whitmer emphasized deep economic ties between Michigan and Canada, particularly in the automotive sector.

“I’m not opposed to tariffs outright, but we can’t treat them like a ‘one size fits all’ solution,” she said in her ‘Road Ahead Address.’ “And we certainly shouldn’t use them to punish our closest trading partners.”

The governor highlighted cross-border initiatives such as electric vehicle testing agreements and the Gordie Howe International Bridge, calling the project “a symbol of our friendship and a driver of economic growth for decades to come.”

She also pointed to Canadian investments in Michigan, noting that 26 recent projects have created more than 4,000 jobs in the state.

Whitmer referenced a recent meeting with Ontario Premier Doug Ford, highlighting the importance of cross-border collaboration.

“My office has been in active discussions with Premier Ford’s team and leadership from the Liberal Party to explore ways we can collaborate on tariffs, lower the cost of doing business, and protect Michigan industry and consumers,” she said.

Ford himself has been outspoken on the potential job losses tariffs could trigger.

“This is serious,” he said. “This could affect anywhere from 250,000 to 500,000 people.”

Whitmer also warned tariffs could disrupt supply chains, slow production, and ultimately result in job losses on both sides of the border.

“The only winner in this equation is China. They would love nothing more than to watch us cripple America’s auto ecosystem all by ourselves,” she said.