Gretchen Whitmer Explains Hiding Behind Blue Folders in Oval Office During Trump Meeting, Eyes 2028 Nomination

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has addressed a viral photo from her recent visit to the White House, where she was seen holding blue folders in front of her face in the Oval Office during a meeting with President Donald Trump. Trump was signing executive orders, and Whitmer explained that she did not want her picture taken at that moment. The photo, published by the New York Times, led to significant commentary on social media. Whitmer, a Democrat, met with Trump, a Republican, to discuss state issues such as an emergency declaration for a recent ice storm in Michigan, the future of Selfridge Air National Guard Base, and managing the threat of Asian carp. Trump praised Whitmer, calling her a 'very good person' and acknowledging her efforts in Michigan. Despite the incident, Whitmer has emphasized her focus on state priorities over political optics. She has been rumored as a potential contender for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination. Whitmer also mentioned her book 'True Gretch,' where she discusses learning to laugh at herself, reflecting on the viral moment by saying, 'I kinda wish I hadn’t put my folder up in front of my face, but whatever.'