Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says America is ready to elect a woman

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer rejected former First Lady Michelle Obama’s assertion that American voters are unprepared to elect a female president during an appearance on NBC’s Meet the Press on Sunday. Whitmer stated that she believes the nation is ready, citing the strength of current Democratic leadership. She expressed confidence that any Democratic governor could defeat Vice President JD Vance or Secretary of State Marco Rubio in the 2028 presidential election. When asked directly if a woman represents the best option to challenge a Republican nominee, Whitmer affirmed her belief. Obama previously declared in 2025 that the country was not ready for a woman in the highest office, referencing recent electoral results. Whitmer noted that many of her colleagues are interested in seeking the presidency, despite common objections regarding specific candidates. Several prominent Democrats, including Whitmer, former Vice President Kamala Harris, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, are viewed as likely contenders for the 2028 nomination. These officials have recently traveled across the country to campaign for Democratic gubernatorial candidates in competitive states ahead of midterm elections. Whitmer declined to confirm her own candidacy immediately, stating she will determine her next steps after leaving office in January. She told moderator Kristen Welker that she plans to take time off before making decisions. Earlier in the year, Whitmer initially stated she would not run for president in 2028, though she later reversed that stance by noting she had never predicted she would become governor. During the interview, Whitmer addressed the ongoing gubernatorial race in Ohio involving Democratic candidate Amy Acton. Acton’s opponent, Vivek Ramaswamy, aired a television advertisement featuring Acton’s mother labeling her a liar. Acton has disclosed a fifty-year estrangement from her mother and alleged sexual abuse by her late stepfather, Cledith Arthur. Authorities removed Acton and her brother from their mother’s custody in 1978 following Arthur’s arrest on child rape charges. Acton’s mother has not responded to media inquiries. Whitmer described the attack on Acton as abhorrent and argued that such backlash discourages survivors of sexual assault from seeking help. She emphasized the necessity of winning races like Ohio’s to ensure leaders prioritize public welfare. The release of the advertisement drew broad bipartisan criticism, including from Ohio Senator Jon Husted, a Republican facing a tight reelection battle. Whitmer maintained her focus on supporting Acton through the remainder of the campaign.