On social media, many viewers were stunned by images of Whitmer hiding her face in photos taken inside the Oval Office.
Michigan’s democratic governor sparks questions with unusual White House behavior
During a recent White House visit, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer was seen hiding her face behind folders. The photos quickly went viral online.
The images were taken inside the Oval Office as former President Donald Trump spoke to the press. Whitmer appeared uncomfortable and visibly tried to avoid the cameras.
Observers and political analysts immediately began speculating on her motives. Some saw it as a silent protest. Others thought it was a reaction to being caught off guard.
What led to Gretchen Whitmer’s surprising reaction inside the White House?
Governor Whitmer was part of a bipartisan delegation meeting with Trump. They were there to discuss Michigan’s defense priorities, economic tariffs, and recent ice storm damage.
However, the meeting took an unexpected turn. According to her spokesperson, Whitmer was “surprised” when brought into the Oval Office during Trump’s press event.
They gave her no prior notice and didn’t inform her about the nature of the appearance or the president’s planned remarks.
Media reactions to Whitmer’s attempt to avoid the spotlight
The images of Whitmer hiding sparked widespread reactions online. Some saw the act as political cowardice. Others praised it as clever and brave resistance.
Commentator Keith Olbermann tweeted: “It’s rare when you get a shot of the exact moment a political career ends, but there you go.”
Sports analyst Stephen A. Smith defended Whitmer, saying governors must work with presidents, regardless of party differences. “She had no choice,” he explained on ABC News.
Online users on Reddit praised Whitmer’s actions. One post called it a “brilliant protest” against a media setup designed to ambush her unexpectedly.
One person said: Acting like a child that has been taken to someone’s house and is having a tantrum.
A second wrote: First off the glare off the gaudy gold might have cast a light on her face. He has no class on decorating.
While a third commented: When you accidentally walk into the wrong Zoom meeting and it’s the Oval Office.
Another added: It’s Elon musk in a wig!!
Someone else said: She should hide her face in shame for what she has done
Another user wrote: Good for you Governor!!!
Whitmer responds to the backlash and defends her Oval Office behavior
In a statement to CNN, Whitmer’s office said she had no idea she’d be part of the live press event. She was caught off guard by the cameras.
“The governor was surprised by her sudden inclusion in the press conference,” her spokesperson said. “Her presence is not an endorsement of the event or its content.”
Later, Whitmer also addressed the situation publicly. Speaking at a college event, she explained her reasons for staying and keeping a low profile.
“I stayed in the room because I needed to advocate for Michigan,” she said. “But it was not where I wanted to be.”
She added that she disagreed with many of the statements made during the event. However, she felt a duty to represent her state.
The photos that showed a silent political message – or just awkward timing?
While some believe Gretchen Whitmer’s Oval Office photos captured a protest, others see it differently. They suggest it was merely an awkward moment in a tough job.
Notably, Trump praised Whitmer during the event, calling her a “very good person” and complimenting her leadership.
This marked a sharp contrast to his past criticisms. During the pandemic, Trump referred to her as a problem and frequently clashed with her over COVID-19 measures.