Trump Calls Whitmer A 'Dictator' In Thursday Morning Interview

MICHIGAN — President Donald Trump called Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer a dictator in an interview on FOX Business Thursday morning.

Trump's comments came while he discussed Democratic governors around the nation and his claim that they need to open up their states amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

"Michigan, she has to open up," Trump said, referring to Whitmer. "She wants to be a dictator in Michigan and the people can't stand her. They want to get back and they want to get back to work."

Thursday's comments from the president continue a back-and-forth between he and Whitmer. Last week, Whitmer said Trump was complicit in violent plots to kidnap her because he failed to condemn groups such as the Wolverine Watchmen.

"When our leaders speak, their words matter. They carry weight," she said at the time. "When our leaders meet with, encourage or fraternize with domestic terrorists. They legitimize their actions, and they are complicit."

Trump responded on social media, saying Whitmer had done a terrible job as governor.

"Governor Whitmer of Michigan has done a terrible job. She locked down her state for everyone, except her husband's boating activities," Trump said in a series of tweets. "The Federal Government provided tremendous help to the Great People of Michigan. My Justice Department and Federal Law Enforcement announced...

"...today that they foiled a dangerous plot against the Governor of Michigan. Rather than say thank you, she calls me a White Supremacist—while Biden and Democrats refuse to condemn Antifa, Anarchists, Looters and Mobs that burn down Democrat run cities...

"...I do not tolerate ANY extreme violence. Defending ALL Americans, even those who oppose and attack me, is what I will always do as your President! Governor Whitmer—open up your state, open up your schools, and open up your churches!"

Trump's comments also come just a couple of days ahead of another visit to Michigan. He is scheduled to speak Saturday in Muskegon in support of law enforcement.