Gretchen Whitmer, Michigan's Democratic Governor, Acquitted in Kidnapping Plot Case

Federal Jury Delivers Verdict in High-Profile Trial

Details of the Case and Whitmer's Political Career

Gretchen Esther Whitmer, the 49th governor of Michigan, has been acquitted by a federal jury in a plot to kidnap her. The jury reached its verdict on Monday, August 22, 2023, after a trial that lasted three weeks. Whitmer, a Democrat, has been a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump and his supporters, and the plot against her is believed to have been motivated by her political stances.

Whitmer was elected governor in 2018, becoming the first woman to hold the position in Michigan. She is known for her progressive policies, including her support for abortion rights and gun control. In 2020, Whitmer was one of the governors who issued stay-at-home orders to slow the spread of COVID-19, which made her a target of criticism from conservatives.

The plot to kidnap Whitmer was uncovered in October 2020, when the FBI arrested six men. The men were charged with conspiracy to kidnap, conspiracy to carry a firearm during a crime of violence, and aiding and abetting. Two of the men, Adam Fox and Barry Croft, were convicted of the charges in August of this year.

Whitmer has expressed her relief at the verdict and vowed to continue her work as governor. She said in a statement, "I am grateful to the jury for their service and to the FBI and law enforcement for their tireless work to protect me and my family." She also thanked the people of Michigan for their support, saying, "I will never forget the outpouring of love and support I received from Michiganders during this time."