Fri Feb 28 06:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Whitmer Appeals to Young Men in State of the State Address

**LANSING, Mich. (AP) —** In her State of the State address on Wednesday, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a direct appeal to young men, a demographic that shifted significantly towards Republican candidate Donald Trump in the recent election. The speech, delivered just days after a White House dinner with President Trump, emphasized Whitmer’s continued commitment to bipartisan cooperation, even as she acknowledges the significant political divisions.

Whitmer, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, highlighted the need to address the concerns of young men, particularly their economic anxieties, noting that they have fallen behind in several key areas compared to women. She cited statistics showing significantly lower male enrollment in the state’s tuition-free community college program. To counteract this, she pledged to sign an executive order boosting enrollment in educational and skill-training programs targeted at young men.

While acknowledging recent advancements made by women in education and homeownership, Whitmer stressed her dedication to equal opportunities for all. She reiterated her commitment to women’s rights, referencing the 2022 ballot measure codifying reproductive rights in Michigan.

House Speaker Matt Hall, a Republican, responded to Whitmer’s address, suggesting that her message, while well-intentioned, needs to be matched by concrete policy achievements. The governor’s collaborative approach, however, is not universally supported within her own party. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel expressed concern about Whitmer’s conciliatory tone towards President Trump, calling attempts at negotiation a “fool’s errand.” Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, while praising the collaborative message, urged Whitmer and other governors to address concerns stemming from the Trump administration’s actions.

In her address, Whitmer also promoted legislation aimed at limiting cellphone use in schools and taxing vape products. Republicans have indicated support for the former but opposition to the latter. This speech marked Whitmer’s second-to-last State of the State address due to term limits. The address serves as a yearly platform for the Governor to highlight policy priorities.

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