Trump and Whitmer put past tensions aside to announce new F-15 fighter jets for Selfridge Air Base, securing its future
In a surprising twist, President Donald Trump and Michigan Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer shared an unexpected hug on Tuesday, as Trump delivered a major win for Michigan’s Selfridge Air National Guard Base. The announcement? The base will receive 21 new F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets, replacing its ageing fleet of A-10 aircraft, which have long been on the chopping block.
The moment, unfolding against the backdrop of a deeply divided political landscape, highlighted the rare and symbolic cooperation between the two figures. Whitmer, who has clashed with Trump in the past, has been working to secure a future for the base, which is critical to Michigan’s economy and military readiness.
Trump’s visit to Michigan on his 100th day in office was a poignant one, as he made a personal vow to put to rest any fears about the future of Selfridge. “For decades, Selfridge has stood as a crucial pillar of North American air defense,” Trump said, addressing the crowd at the base. He continued, “In recent years, many in Michigan have feared for the future of the base. They’ve been calling everybody, but the only one that mattered is Trump. Today, I have come in person to lay to rest any doubt about Selfridge’s future.”
The base, located about 30 miles north of Detroit, has been at the heart of a long-standing campaign to replace its old A-10 planes, which are nearing retirement. The fear was that without a modern fleet, the base might close. Trump’s announcement that the A-10s would be replaced by 21 cutting-edge F-15EX jets was a much-needed victory for local and state officials who had fought to keep the base operational.
Governor Whitmer, who had a brief motorcade ride with Trump to the base, spoke about the significance of the announcement. “I am really damn happy we’re here to celebrate this recapitalization at Selfridge,” she said. “It’s crucial for the Michigan economy, it’s crucial for the men and women here, for our homeland security and our future.”
Despite their public display of unity, Whitmer was careful in her remarks, not specifically thanking Trump, but rather focusing on the importance of the airbase for Michigan’s future. “Thank you. I’m so, so grateful that this announcement was made today, and I appreciate all the work,” she added.
The political dynamics between Whitmer and Trump have been complex, and their shared moment at Selfridge marked a rare convergence of political interests. Whitmer, who had previously criticised Trump’s policies, has clearly softened her stance, recognising the importance of working together for Michigan’s benefit.
Selfridge Air National Guard Base is crucial to Michigan, contributing an estimated $850 million to the state’s economy and supporting around 5,000 military and civilian jobs. The new fighter jets will help ensure the base’s continued relevance in America’s air defence strategy.
Trump’s praise for Whitmer’s advocacy for Selfridge was clear, though he refrained from mentioning her directly in his speech. “She’s been very effective in advocating for Selfridge,” he said, acknowledging the governor’s role in securing the jets.
This announcement comes at a time when political tensions remain high, and many questioned whether Trump and Whitmer, both figures with strong bases of support, could overcome past differences. Their hug, although brief, symbolised a step towards mutual respect and collaboration, despite the volatile political climate.
The decision to send F-15EX jets to Selfridge marks a turning point for the base, cementing its future in the face of potential closure. It remains to be seen how this moment will affect Whitmer’s standing within the Democratic Party, given the political risk of embracing Trump, but for now, Michigan is celebrating a victory in the fight for its airbase’s survival.
