Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who has famously declared about a zillion times she would “fight like hell” for Democratic priorities, now wants us all to come together in harmony. Following the shocking shooting of former President Trump, Whitmer released a statement [1] urging Americans to “turn down the heat” of political discourse.
It’s quite the pivot from a governor known for her fiery rhetoric to be calling out rhetoric. Whitmer, co- chair of Biden’s re-election campaign, must have also forgotten that it’s been HER Democratic Party that has been using divisive and dangerous language to paint Trump as a “threat” to the country and democracy. Trump is Hitler incarnated, they say, as well as other choice words and phrases.
Selective memory?
Whitmer’s plea for unity is rich, considering some of her own divisive remarks, calling Trump “complicit” in the actions of Proud Boys, saying that he’s spreading misinformation and stoking fear as well as many other toxic and accusatory comments. It seems like Whitmer has forgotten her part in the “alarming, years-long trend” of toxic political rhetoric she now condemns.
In addition to that, she’s never met a swear word she doesn’t like. So my advice to Gov. Whitmer: TONE DOWN YOURSELF FIRST!!! I’ve given her this advice many times including here [2] and here [3].
A history of heated words.
Whitmer’s tenure has been marked by some memorable outbursts, including accusing Republicans of undermining democracy and frequently lashing out at those who oppose her policies, calling them “anti-science” and “dangerous.” The Michigan Democratic Party was right in the fight with her as well with Michigan Democratic Party Chair Lavora Barnes saying, “While Republican politicians were rejecting science and spewing dangerous anti-vaxx conspiracy theories, Gov. Whitmer was making tough, lifesaving decisions to lead the state through the pandemic.”
Yet now, in the wake of a national tragedy, Gov. Whitmer and (other Democrats) want us to hold hands and sing kumbaya. Sorry, honey, look in the mirror and clean up your own side of the sidewalk first – and then maybe we’ll think about it.
The ironic appeal, using President Lincoln’s words.
Whitmer quoted Abraham Lincoln in her press release, saying, “We are not enemies, but friends.” It’s worth noting that this comes from a governor who has repeatedly alluded to Trump being a public health menace, not a friend. Whitmer’s sudden embrace of Lincoln’s conciliatory words seems more like convenient politicking than a genuine change of heart.
Cynicism or hope?
In her statement, Whitmer also speaks of young voters born in 2006, claiming they see politics as a dark, contentious arena. Perhaps they do, but it’s because of opposition rhetoric from Democrats like herself. Whitmer, Biden, the Democratic Party and their friends in the leftist media who amplify division with their “fight like hell” mentality, have played a significant role in creating the political environment these young voters see today.
A nation of good, kind people?
Whitmer asserts she remains optimistic because she believes in the fundamental goodness of Americans. Yet her actions and words often tell a different story. When she chooses to engage in inflammatory rhetoric, it undermines the very unity she now champions. It’s easy to call for civility when it’s politically expedient, but it’s harder to practice what you preach. She is no great role model, that is for sure.
Whitmer’s controversial “8645” placard.
Recently, reports [4] have come out reminding everyone about a Whitmer’s “Meet the Press” interview in 2020 where there was a “8645” placard [5] in the background of where she was speaking. As explained by Michigan News Source, “The number ’86’ is restaurant slang for nixing an order, or to indicate to wait staff that a certain dish is no longer able to be served. It also means ‘to get rid of’ and is short for ‘killing someone.’ The number ’45” references Trump as the 45th president.”
Classy, Gretchen. Really classy.
Moving forward together?
Whitmer urges us to move forward together, hold each other accountable, and reject divisive rhetoric. These are noble goals, but they require more than just words. They require leaders to lead by example. If Whitmer truly wants unity, she needs to start by reflecting on her own contributions to the current climate of division.