Michigan Governor Whitmer spent over $200,000 on Asia trip

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and her delegation spent more than $200,000 during an eight-day trip to South Korea and Taiwan in September. Records obtained via a Freedom of Information Act request show the trip averaged approximately $26,000 per day.

Expenses included $91,000 for airfare, nearly $70,000 for hotel accommodations, $13,000 for conference rooms and events, $11,000 for ground transportation, and $6,000 for meals. Other costs covered photographer fees, interpretation services, and a $3,200 cultural activity.

The Michigan Economic Development Corp. and the Michigan Economic Development Foundation supported the mission. Whitmer defended the travel as essential for strengthening business relations and securing jobs and investments for Michigan, noting that South Korea and Taiwan are key partners in technology and manufacturing.