Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is facing backlash after a controversial video surfaced showing her feeding a Dorito to podcaster Liz Plank in a manner many Catholics found offensive. In the video, Plank kneels before Whitmer, who places a Dorito in her mouth, an act that critics argue closely resembles the Eucharist, a sacred Christian sacrament. The video, part of a social media trend, drew sharp criticism from Catholic organizations and conservatives alike, accusing Whitmer of mocking religious practices.
The video, originally posted by Plank on Instagram, features Whitmer wearing a Harris-Walz campaign hat, promoting the CHIPS Act, legislation aimed at bolstering semiconductor production in the U.S. However, many Catholics saw the stunt as a parody of Holy Communion. The Michigan Catholic Conference (MCC) condemned the video, with its president, Paul Long, stating that the actions depicted were "distasteful" and disrespectful to Catholics.
Is it me or does anyone else think that Gretchen Whitmar is a ridiculous bitch? https://t.co/AuM4DsSBtP
— Marta Norona (@NoronaMarta) October 11, 2024
The controversy erupted quickly, with conservative voices amplifying the criticism. Tim Murtaugh, a former Trump advisor, tweeted that Whitmer was "pretending to give communion" using a Dorito, calling it a deliberate insult to Catholics.
The symbolism of the video, along with the choice of snack, further fueled outrage among religious communities.
Somehow we're gonna end up with Gretchen Whitmar as President. I just have this sinking feeling. pic.twitter.com/8Vy59GimRJ
— Alfred North Crackhead👁️⃤ (@A_JunkDrawer) July 19, 2024
In response to the backlash, Whitmer issued an apology, stating that the video "has been construed as something it was never intended to be." She emphasized that her intent was never to mock religious practices, but rather to spotlight the CHIPS Act and its benefits for Michigan's economy. Whitmer reiterated that she had spent over 25 years in public service and would never intentionally denigrate someone's faith.
Despite her apology, the controversy has persisted. Critics remain unconvinced, questioning why the video was filmed in such a manner if it wasn’t meant to provoke. Some have pointed out that the video appears to follow a viral trend, where one person feeds another while the song "Dilemma" by Nelly and Kelly Rowland plays in the background. This added a layer of confusion and discomfort for viewers who found the entire scene inappropriate.
The Michigan Catholic Conference responded to Whitmer’s apology, appreciating the dialogue but noting that the offense had already occurred. "Whether or not insulting Catholics and the Eucharist was the intent, it has had an offensive impact," Long said. The group remains skeptical of Whitmer’s explanation, calling the act insensitive at best.
As this story continues to make headlines, many are left questioning the judgment behind the video’s creation. For Whitmer, it marks yet another instance of political controversy, especially among conservative and religious voters. While her apology may have diffused some tension, the impact on her standing with religious communities in Michigan remains to be seen.
