Governor Whitmer Makes Direct Appeal to Young Voters Amid Political Shifts

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer addressed a crucial shift in voter demographics during her State of the State address on February 26, 2025, emphasizing the importance of unity among political parties.

Whitmer’s speech came shortly after a White House dinner with President Donald Trump, where she reiterated her desire to seek common ground with Republicans. As she eyes a potential 2028 presidential run, her message particularly targeted young men, a demographic that had notably shifted towards Trump in recent elections.

“The last thing any of us wants is a generation of young men falling behind their fathers and grandfathers,” said Whitmer. Her message stemmed from data showing a significant increase in support for Trump from young men under 45, according to AP VoteCast, which surveyed over 120,000 voters nationwide. Many respondents indicated they favored Trump’s economic policies and job opportunities.

To highlight her points, Whitmer cited statistics where women have outperformed men in various sectors, such as education and home ownership. Notably, she mentioned that twice as many women have enrolled in a state program for tuition-free community college compared to men.

Republican House Speaker Matt Hall responded to Whitmer’s remarks, stating, “The rhetoric is great, but the record has to match that.” He acknowledged that Whitmer is likely trying to revamp her message to re-attract young male voters to the Democratic Party.

In her speech, Whitmer committed to signing an executive order aimed at increasing young men’s participation in education and skill-training programs. As one of only 12 female governors in the nation, she has consistently advocated for women’s rights, exemplified by her support for a 2022 ballot measure that codified reproductive rights in Michigan.

“To the women out there who are succeeding after decades of having the deck stacked against them, I see your resilience and I will never abandon my commitment to equal opportunity and dignity for everyone,” Whitmer declared.

This State of the State address was particularly significant as it marks the second-to-last opportunity for the two-term governor to outline her policies due to term limits. Whitmer’s leadership faces a split Legislature after Republicans gained control of the state House, which could complicate her efforts for bipartisan initiatives.

“My north star has always been collaboration,” Whitmer reiterated, emphasizing her intent to work alongside Republicans.

However, not all Democrats support her conciliatory approach. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel criticized Whitmer’s tone toward the president, asserting that it risks normalizing the current administration’s federal actions. “It’s a fool’s errand to negotiate with the president,” Nessel remarked.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, while appreciative of Whitmer’s collaborative message, called for further focus on the diverse concerns of Michiganders, especially regarding safety and protection from discrimination.

In addition to her outreach efforts, Whitmer introduced legislation aimed at limiting cellphone usage in schools and imposing taxes on vaping products. While Republican leaders have shown support for restricting phone use, they have expressed opposition to the tax proposal.

As the governor navigates her final legislative agenda, the implications of her efforts to engage young voters—especially young men—will play a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape ahead of the 2028 elections.