Gov. Whitmer Remains Neutral Amid Feud Between AG Dana Nessel and Rep. Rashida Tlaib
Controversy Stirs in Michigan
In an escalating feud between Michigan’s Attorney General, Dana Nessel, and Representative Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich), Governor Gretchen Whitmer chose not to take sides. The tension rose following accusations made by Rep. Tlaib against AG Nessel for allegedly showing bias in charges brought against anti-Israel protesters at the University of Michigan because of her Jewish faith.
Governor’s Response to the Matter
Gov. Whitmer was asked about the controversy in a recent interview on a nationally broadcast talk show. When queried about the allegations against Nessel, Whitmer declined to comment on the matter, stating, “I’m not going to get in the middle of this argument.”
Whitmer did, however, express the emotional toll the conflict has taken on the Jewish and Muslim communities in Michigan. “I know that seeing the incredible toll that this war has taken on both communities has been really, really challenging and difficult, and my heart breaks for so many,” the Governor said.
Details About the Dispute
Nessel, who is Michigan’s first Jewish attorney general, had charged nine students who refused to clear anti-Israel encampments at the University of Michigan in May, despite police orders. The reports indicate the charges against these individuals include trespassing and resisting or obstructing a police officer. Two others were charged with attempted ethnic intimidation and destruction of personal property during a separate anti-Israel demonstration.
Rep. Tlaib, a well-known critic of Israel, publicly condemned the charges, suggesting they were colored by bias due to the AG’s Jewish faith. Referring to AG Nessel, Tlaib said, “It seems that the Attorney General decided if the issue was Palestine, she was going to treat it differently, and that alone speaks volumes about possible biases within the agency she runs.”
Antisemitism Accusations
Responding to Tlaib’s comments, Nessel countered, “Rashida Tlaib should not use my religion to imply I cannot perform my job fairly as Attorney General.” Nessel went on to label Tlaib’s accusation as antisemitic.
Support from the Anti-Defamation League
CEO Jonathan Greenblatt has rebuked Gov. Whitmer for not standing up in Nessel’s defense. He posted on social media, admonishing the governor when alleging that a congresswoman was accusing the attorney general of bias simply because of her religious affiliation.
The Ongoing Debate
While the disagreement continues, Gov. Whitmer maintains her stance of neutrality, emphasizing the protection and respect of all communities under the law in Michigan. Such high-profile public spats continue to stoke the fire of debate regarding antisemitism and bias within the law enforcement agencies.
Author: STAFF HERE NORTHVILLE WRITER
NORTHVILLE STAFF WRITER The NORTHVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENorthville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Northville, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Summer Concert Series, Tunes on Tuesday, and the Northville Farmers Market. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Northville Chamber of Commerce and Northville Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, software, and retail that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Reliable Software, and Attendance on Demand. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
