Gretchen Whitmer
Coverage of Gretchen Whitmer in the Nexus archive.
- Whitmer headlines Kentucky Democrats’ push toward 2026 midterms
During the Kentucky Democrats’ Forward Together Dinner, candidates Jacqueline Coleman and Rocky Adkins faced scrutiny regarding the upcoming primary for governor. Gov. Andy Beshear told reporters that he would not make an endorsement in the race, while McGarvey highlighted the internal tension between the two contenders. While looking toward a unified effort to support a Democratic win in November, both candidates are active competitors, with focus also shifting to preparing for the 2026 midterms.
- Tuesday’s takeaways: Some seasoned candidates and a famous name advance in primaries
In recent primary elections, no single side was able to claim a decisive win in the Democratic contest, which showcased struggle between ideological left and center. In related contests, candidates like Darline Graham secured a spot in a runoff election later this month, while Abdul El-Sayed edged four-term U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens in Michigan’s Democratic primary.
- Meet the candidates running in the 2026 Michigan gubernatorial race
The 2026 Michigan gubernatorial race features Jocelyn Benson and John James as the candidates. Benson plans to lower costs, expand economic opportunity, and protect individual rights, while James focuses on improving infrastructure, addressing high costs, and bolstering public safety. Key concerns mentioned by voters include education, affordability, economic growth, and public safety.
- Michiganders are going hungry in the wake of federal food assistance cuts
The passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA) has caused federal cuts to food assistance and healthcare, disproportionately harming Michiganders. The bill altered SNAP rules by raising the age threshold for exemptions from 55 to 65, which has resulted in many children and older adults losing vital benefits. Local food pantries report increasing need as hunger rises among Michigan families.
- Michigan Gov Whitmer congratulates El-Sayed, expressing support after backing his opponent in Dem primary
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer expressed support for Abdul El-Sayed after she initially backed his opponent, U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, in the primary. El-Sayed emerged as the winner of the close democratic contest. Later, both El-Sayed and Stevens congratulated each other and pledged to unite to defeat Mike Rogers this November.
- Michigan Gov Whitmer congratulates El-Sayed, expressing support after backing his opponent in Dem primary
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer expressed support for Abdul El-Sayed following her initial backing of his opponent, U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, in the Democratic primary. El-Sayed won a close contest against Stevens and exchanged messages of congratulations while aiming to unite efforts to defeat Mike Rogers this November. The article also reports that former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers is running for U.S. Senate again.
- How Abdul El-Sayed went from political oblivion to progressive breakthrough in Michigan Senate race
Abdul El-Sayed narrowly defeated Rep. Haley Stevens in Michigan’s U.S. Senate primary, setting up a November race against Republican Mike Rogers. His victory, by a margin of less than 1 percentage point, marks a political breakthrough for progressives despite over $60 million in outside spending against him.
- Jocelyn Benson, John James win nominations for Michigan Governor
Jocelyn Benson and John James won nominations for Michigan Governor, with voters selecting them to replace Gretchen Whitmer in the governor’s mansion.
- Benson snags Whitmer endorsement at post-primary event, positioning herself as a party unifier
Jocelyn Benson secured a primary victory for Michigan's gubernatorial nomination and received an endorsement from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Whitmer highlighted policy achievements like free school meals and pre-K, while Benson emphasized unifying the Democratic party after a contentious primary. Both candidates criticized Republican nominee John James.
- Stevens and El-Sayed locked in tight race for Michigan's Democratic Senate nomination
Abdul El-Sayed and Haley Stevens remain in a close race for Michigan's Democratic Senate nomination, with vote counts expected to take time and the outcome critical for party unity ahead of the midterms. El-Sayed, endorsed by Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, faces Stevens, who receives support from AIPAC and Governor Gretchen Whitmer. The winner will face Republican Mike Rogers, Trump's pick, in a contest pivotal to Senate control.
- Michigan primary puts Democratic divide on the ballot
Michigan's Democratic primary features Abdul El-Sayed, a leftist backed by Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, narrowly leading centrist Haley Stevens, who is supported by Chuck Schumer and Gretchen Whitmer. The race reflects divisions over Israel policy, electability, and the party's future, with the winner facing Mike Rogers in November for a Senate seat vacated by Gary Peters. Results could influence Democrats' chances to gain Senate control.
- Abdul El-Sayed leads Haley Stevens in Michigan Democratic Senate primary
Abdul El-Sayed leads Haley Stevens in Michigan's Democratic Senate primary with partial vote counts, as the race reflects party divisions between progressive and establishment factions. Key vote-rich areas remain uncounted, and the winner will face Republican Mike Rogers in a general election toss-up race.
- Benson, James set to showdown in Michigan governor’s race
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson (D) and President Trump-endorsed Rep. John James (R-Mich.) are projected to face off in the Michigan governor’s race this fall, according to Decision Desk HQ. Benson defeated Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson for the Democratic nomination, while James defeated businessman Perry Johnson for the Republican nomination.
- Live results: Democrats, Republicans compete to replace Whitmer in Michigan gubernatorial primaries
Jocelyn Benson is on track to secure the Democratic nomination to replace term-limited Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, while three Republicans compete for the GOP nomination. Benson is expected to advance in a primary with one challenger, and Rep. John James is mentioned as a Republican candidate.
- Full interviews: Hear from 4 candidates running for Michigan governor
Candidates for Michigan's 2026 gubernatorial race, including John James, Jocelyn Benson, Perry Johnson, and Chris Swanson, discussed priorities like education, affordability, and public safety. Current Governor Gretchen Whitmer is term-limited. Interviews were conducted by Local 4 ahead of the August 4 primary election.
- Michigan Supreme Court rejects permit for Enbridge oil pipeline under Great Lakes
The Michigan Supreme Court ordered regulators to reconsider a permit for Enbridge's proposed pipeline tunnel under the Great Lakes, ruling that environmental impacts and alternatives were inadequately assessed. The 6-1 decision challenges the future of Line 5, a 73-year-old pipeline, as environmentalists and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer argue it poses a catastrophic spill risk to the region.
- Michigan Supreme Court rejects permit for Enbridge oil pipeline under Great Lakes
The Michigan Supreme Court ordered state regulators to reconsider a permit for Enbridge's Line 5 oil pipeline tunnel under the Great Lakes, citing environmental oversight. The court ruled regulators failed to assess the pipeline's extended operational impact and alternatives, while opponents argue the project risks the Great Lakes' ecosystem and sacred sites.
- Michigan Supreme Court rejects permit for Enbridge oil pipeline under Great Lakes
The Michigan Supreme Court rejected a permit for Enbridge's proposed tunnel to house its Line 5 oil pipeline under the Great Lakes, citing insufficient environmental review. The court found regulators failed to assess whether the tunnel would extend the pipeline's lifespan and cause greater harm, while environmentalists and tribal nations oppose the project due to spill risks and cultural significance. Enbridge argues the tunnel would enhance environmental protection and energy reliability.
- Michigan Supreme Court rejects permit for Enbridge oil pipeline under Great Lakes
The Michigan Supreme Court rejected a permit for Enbridge's planned tunnel to carry Line 5 oil pipeline under the Great Lakes, citing regulatory failures in environmental impact assessments. The 6-1 decision mandates regulators reevaluate the project, which environmentalists and tribal nations argue poses catastrophic risks to the waterway and sacred Indigenous sites.
- Your Weekly Michigan Political Brief
The article outlines recent endorsements for various political candidates in Michigan, including U.S. Senate and Congressional District races, as well as a gubernatorial bid. Key candidates like Haley Stevens, Abdul El-Sayed, and Jocelyn Benson received support from prominent figures and organizations such as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, UFCW, and the Michigan Chronicle.
- Planned Parenthood of Michigan to close three clinics after funding cuts
Planned Parenthood of Michigan announced the permanent closure of three clinics in Lansing, Livonia, and Warren due to funding cuts from federal Medicaid and Title X program changes. The organization cited a $4.2 million decline in funding and requested $5 million from the state, but Governor Gretchen Whitmer deferred the issue to the legislature.
- What juvenile defense means for Michigan
In 2023, Michigan passed the Justice for Kids and Communities Act with 19 juvenile justice reform bills, but the 20th bill ensuring youths’ right to counsel was signed into law three years later by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) now has authority to establish statewide juvenile defense standards, improving legal support for children.
- State of the Race: Democratic U.S. Senate race pits old guard, vanguard in battle for party’s soul
Michigan Democrats face a choice between progressive Abdul El-Sayed and center-left Haley Stevens in the August 4 Senate primary. The race could determine whether Democrats retain control of the U.S. Senate and reflect broader national debates over the party’s direction. El-Sayed, endorsed by progressive figures like Bernie Sanders, challenges Stevens, who has support from Democratic establishment leaders including Gretchen Whitmer.
- ‘It feels surreal’: Howe family, everyday drivers make history on Gordie Howe Bridge
The Gordie Howe International Bridge opened to traffic after years of construction and delays, with the first crossings led by Gordie Howe’s grandson, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and other dignitaries. Drivers from the region celebrated the historic event, some bringing vintage vehicles like a 1929 Ford Model A to mark the occasion.
- U.S.—Canada bridge opens to traffic in Detroit amid Trump tariffs strain
A new six-lane bridge connecting Detroit and Windsor, Canada, opened to traffic as an alternative to the privately owned Ambassador Bridge. The $6.4 billion Canadian-built bridge faces political tensions due to U.S. President Donald Trump's 50% tariffs on Canadian goods, which have strained cross-border trade relations.
- Fact check: Ads take El-Sayed out of context to claim he ‘disrespects women’
Ads in Michigan’s US Senate race claim Abdul El-Sayed has a history of ‘disrespecting women’ based on past comments and sources, which his campaign calls ‘misleading and offensive.’ A fact-check found the cited examples, including policy critiques of Michelle Obama and Gretchen Whitmer, lacked explicit gender-based or misogynistic language. El-Sayed stated the ads have impacted his family, while opponent Haley Stevens denied the claims.
- US-Canada bridge opens in Detroit even as trade disputes test the neighbors’ ties
A new six-lane bridge linking Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, opened to vehicles as an alternative to the Ambassador Bridge, despite trade disputes between the U.S. and Canada. The Gordie Howe International Bridge, built by Canada at a cost of $6.4 billion, faced political tensions including U.S. President Trump's 50% tariffs on Canadian goods. The bridge will eventually allow free pedestrian and bicycle access.
- Gordie Howe bridge opens to traffic, even as trade dispute tests US-Canada ties
The Gordie Howe International Bridge opened to traffic on July 27, 2026, with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer driving a Michigan-built Ford Mustang to mark the event. Whitmer described the bridge as an engineering marvel and a symbol of the partnership between Michigan and Canada.
- Gordie Howe International Bridge officially opens to traffic
The Gordie Howe International Bridge opened to traffic on July 27, with Gordie Howe’s family among the first to cross. Tolls vary by vehicle type, with rates listed in CAD and USD. Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield highlighted the bridge's economic benefits in a statement.
- Gov Gretchen Whitmer crosses Gordie Howe Bridge
Governor Gretchen Whitmer was the first to ceremoniously cross the new Gordie Howe Bridge hours before its public opening. The bridge is described as an international structure.
- Gordie Howe Bridge: Gov Gretchen Whitmer is 1st to ceremoniously cross
Gov Gretchen Whitmer was the first to ceremoniously cross the Gordie Howe Bridge. She described the bridge as a tribute to Gordie Howe and the relationship between the United States and Canada, particularly Michigan and Canada.
- Governor Gretchen Whitmer first to cross Gordie Howe Bridge
Governor Gretchen Whitmer was the first to cross the new Gordie Howe International Bridge, which opened to the public today. She received a sneak preview hours before the official opening.
- In Michigan, the price of energy is on the ballot and both parties know it
Energy prices in Michigan's 7th Congressional District are influencing the competitive race between Republican Tom Barrett and Democratic voter Christine Waugh-Fleischmann, with gas prices rising 32% after the Iran war. Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared an energy emergency, but prices continued to climb, fueling voter frustration and shifting political dynamics.
- Gretchen Whitmer quickly becomes Haley Stevens’s most prominent ally after a late game endorsement
Gretchen Whitmer endorsed Haley Stevens for the Democratic U.S. Senate nomination, attending a Teamsters event in Detroit with Rep. Jim Clyburn. Stevens faces Dr. Abdul El-Sayed and Mallory McMorrow in a competitive August primary, with Whitmer's endorsement boosting her campaign after McMorrow exited the race.
- Gretchen Whitmer endorses moderate Haley Stevens in tight upcoming Senate primary
Gretchen Whitmer endorsed Haley Stevens for the Michigan U.S. Senate Democratic primary. Stevens faces Dr. Abdul El-Sayed in a competitive race, with Whitmer's endorsement potentially influencing the outcome. The primary occurs on August 4, with the winner challenging Republican Mike Rogers in November.
- Gretchen Whitmer endorses moderate Haley Stevens in tight upcoming Senate primary
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer endorsed Rep. Haley Stevens for the U.S. Senate Democratic primary. Stevens, a moderate, faces progressive Dr. Abdul El-Sayed in a competitive race as early voting begins. The primary on Aug. 4 will determine the Democratic candidate to face Republican Mike Rogers in November.
- Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer endorses Haley Stevens ahead of key Democratic Senate primary
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer endorsed Haley Stevens for the US Senate ahead of a key Democratic Senate primary. Whitmer cited her strategy of 'getting things done' as the reason for the endorsement.
- Gordie Howe International Bridge opening draws fanfare in Canada but silence on Michigan side
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is set to open, with a Canadian celebration held despite a canceled joint U.S.-Canada event due to President Trump's tariff threats. Michigan's side of the Detroit River remained quiet, prompting local reactions and questions about the absence of a U.S. celebration.
- Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer endorses Haley Stevens in Democratic US Senate primary
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer endorsed Rep. Haley Stevens in the Democratic U.S. Senate primary, which includes a race against Abdul El-Sayed, supported by figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The primary winner will face Republican former Rep. Mike Rogers in November for a key Senate seat previously held by retiring Democrat Gary Peters.
- Whitmer endorses Stevens in Michigan race
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer endorsed Rep. Haley Stevens over Abdul El-Sayed in the Michigan Senate race, reflecting Democratic concerns about a potential far-left primary victory.