Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Gretchen Whitmer

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Gretchen Whitmer.

Gretchen Whitmer is the 49th and current governor of Michigan, serving since 2019. A Democrat, she previously served in the Michigan House of Representatives from 2001 to 2006 and then in the Michigan Senate from 2006 to 2015. She is a lawyer by profession and has dedicated her career to public service in the state of Michigan.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2019: Whitmer Canceled Sale of Former State Prison

In 2019, Gretchen Whitmer canceled the sale of a former state prison due to the purchasing company's plans to operate it as an immigrant detention center. The decision was made because the company could not guarantee the facility would not house families separated under the Trump administration's family separation policy.

September 2020: COVID-19 Orders under Emergency Powers Act

From March through September 2020, Gretchen Whitmer's COVID-19-related orders were issued under the 1945 Emergency Powers of Governor Act. Republicans criticized her use of the law.

October 8, 2020: Federal Indictment Unsealed Against Men for Plotting to Kidnap Whitmer

On October 8, 2020, a federal indictment was unsealed against six men associated with the Wolverine Watchmen for plotting to kidnap Gretchen Whitmer and violently overthrow Michigan's government.

October 2020: Michigan Supreme Court Decision and "Unlock Michigan" Initiative

In October 2020, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled the 1945 Emergency Powers of Governor Act unconstitutional. On the same day, the group "Unlock Michigan" sought to trigger an initiative to repeal the 1945 act.

December 2020: Veto of Repeal Legislation

In December 2020, Gretchen Whitmer vetoed the legislation passed by the legislature to repeal the 1945 Emergency Powers of Governor Act.

2020: Whitmer Disapproved Trump's Census Plan

In 2020, Gretchen Whitmer disapproved of President Trump's plan to exclude illegal immigrants from the United States census.

May 2021: Apologized for Social Distancing Violation

In May 2021, Governor Whitmer apologized after being photographed with a large group of unmasked people, with no social distancing, at a restaurant in East Lansing, violating state-mandated guidelines.

July 2021: Legislature Approves Citizen Initiative

In July 2021, the legislature voted to approve the citizen initiative. Under state law, Whitmer could not veto this step, and the repeal took effect.

April 2022: Acquittal of Two Men in Kidnapping Plot

In April 2022, two men (Harris and Caserta) were acquitted on all charges on grounds of entrapment by federal authorities regarding the plot to kidnap Gretchen Whitmer.

August 2022: Conviction of Two Men in Kidnapping Plot

In August 2022, two men (Fox and Barry Croft Jr.) were convicted of conspiracy to kidnap Gretchen Whitmer.

October 2022: Conviction of Three Men for Providing Material Support

In October 2022, three men (Morrison, Musico, and Bellar) were convicted of providing material support for a terrorist act related to the plot to kidnap Gretchen Whitmer.