Whitmer’s memoirs introduce Michigan’s governor to a national audience

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer released her first memoir on Tuesday. The book, titled “True Gretch: What I Learned About Life, Leadership, and Everything in Between,” is both a portrayal of her political self and her entry onto a more national stage. From advice from her grandmother to her personal account of a kidnapping attempt, Whitmer’s book lays the groundwork for conversations about her political future.

Zoe Clark and Rick Pluta, co-hosts of “It’s Just Politics” on Michigan Public, shared their insights on one of the most anticipated political books of the season and talked to us about what it says about Whitmer’s leadership style and her national image.

Whether this book represents a step toward a broader national presence seems a foregone conclusion.

“There’s not much here that’s mind-blowing or particularly surprising,” Pluta said, but it’s making Whitmer’s story known to people beyond the Lansing press. And while the book is ultimately about Whitmer herself, the governor emphasizes how much listening – whether to potential voters or political opponents – has shaped her career.

“The common thread of the book is her learning from people,” Clark said.

Listen to our full conversation with Zoe Clark and Rick Pluta above.

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