 Whitmer's conversation with the official, campaign chair Jennifer O'Malley Dillon, was cordial but awkward by its very nature. In the aftermath of the president's disastrous debate performance last Thursday, no would-be replacement has been the recipient of more wish-casting among Democrats than the second-term Michigan governor. Whitmer, recognizing as much, disavowed the draft Gretsch chatter. She used the call to reiterate her commitment and willingness to help the president, but also voiced her concern about how much more difficult the campaign would be.