“It’s Shark Week, Motherf—er!”: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Staying Optimistic, Standing Up Against Political Violence, and Embracing Her ‘Big Gretch’ Persona

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, speaking at the Texas Tribune Festival, emphasized optimism and resilience in politics. She discussed her journey, embracing her ‘Big Gretch’ persona, and the importance of spreading joy, even in a contentious election year. Whitmer also shared insights on engaging voters and staying fearless with her “It’s Shark Week, motherf—er!” mentality.

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AUSTIN, Texas ( LANSINGIPTV ) — Invited as the Keynote Speaker  at the Texas Tribune Festival, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed unwavering optimism about the future, despite the heavy political climate she anticipates in the upcoming year. Whitmer discussed her new book, her tenure as governor during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the threats she faced, all while emphasizing the need to “bring light into the world.”

Whitmer, who has become a prominent figure in national politics, said she wrote her book to spread joy and positivity. “I wanted to put some light out into the world in what I figured was going to be another heavy political year,” Whitmer told the audience. “We need to find ways to connect and be joyful, even when times are tough.”

One of the book’s themes includes Whitmer’s acceptance of her nickname “Big Gretch,” which emerged during the pandemic from Detroit communities. Initially hesitant due to her grandmother’s dislike of the shortened name “Gretch,” Whitmer ultimately embraced it. “I always recoiled when people shortened my name,” she said. “But during the pandemic, ‘Big Gretch’ came out of Detroit, and my team told me, ‘People have accepted you; they love you. It’s like you’ve got the key to the city.’ So now, if you call me ‘Big Gretch,’ I know we’re going to be friends for life.”

Whitmer’s leadership through the pandemic put her at odds with the Trump administration, particularly when she and other governors were told by then-President Donald Trump that the federal government would not assist with critical supplies. “I was on a call with the nation’s governors and Trump, and he said, ‘I am not the nation’s shipping clerk,'” Whitmer recalled. “It was a moment that shook me to my core.”

The conversation turned somber as Whitmer recounted the plot to kidnap and assassinate her, a stark reminder of the rising political violence in the U.S. “This is abnormal,” she said of the threats. “We cannot normalize political violence. When I saw the former president stoking this over and over, it was clear that his rhetoric was contributing to the hate.” Despite the threats, Whitmer maintains her resolve. “I’ve never worried about my own safety, but I do worry about my family, my staff, and the state police around me. When someone’s targeting me, it jeopardizes everyone,” she said, noting the heightened awareness she carries into public spaces.

Reflecting on her role as a female leader, Whitmer spoke candidly about the double standards women face in politics. “A lot of women in my generation were told growing up not to talk too much about themselves or stand out,” she said. Whitmer credited former Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm and others for breaking down barriers, allowing her and other women leaders to be more authentic.

Whitmer’s bipartisan approach was highlighted during her campaign slogan to “Fix the Damn Roads” as a direct response to a Michigan constituent’s plea, demonstrating her focus on practical, everyday issues. “Fixing the roads is about more than just roads,” Whitmer said. “It’s about helping people take care of their families and live the lives they deserve.”

Governor Whitmer gifted the audience with one way she maintains a positive outlook during tough times. She recalls attending a Kevin Hart comedy show where she was inspired by the phrase, “It’s Shark Week, motherf—er!” from the comedian. Whitmer uses this statement as a reminder to stay bold and fearless, especially in her public role.

As the 2024 election approaches, Whitmer remains focused on mobilizing voters and emphasizing the importance of civic engagement. “We are in a critical moment, and everyone needs to be part of the solution,” she said. “Whether it’s protecting our rights, improving our communities, or simply showing up to vote—every action counts. This isn’t just about politics; it’s about our future. We’ve been through tough times before, and we’ve come out stronger. Now, let’s do it again.”

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