MI Governor's Race: 2026 Primary Election Live Results

Michiganders in Tuesday's primary elections are determining the candidates for the state's governor's race in November, with the polls now closed.

Vying for the Democratic nomination are Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson. U.S. Rep. John James of Shelby Township and businessman Perry Johnson are battling for the Republican nomination.

Here are the live election results:

Democrat

Precincts reporting -

Republican

Precincts reporting -

Dems Vie To Replace Whitmer

Michigan Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer cannot run again after serving two terms.

For the Democrats, Benson centered her campaign on cutting essential costs for families, such as health care, prescription drugs, auto insurance, and housing.

She has cited housing as one of the most enduring challenges that Michigan faces and has put together a plan to help create opportunities for first-time homeowners.

Gov Candidate Says Miscarriage Prompted Reproductive Health Focus

Swanson has also talked about cutting costs for families, including proposing a six-month moratorium on utility rate increases. He has also pointed to lowering state costs and targeted tax relief.

State Of The Race: Democrats Line Up Behind Benson, Republicans Face Off In Brutal Two-Way Primary

Trump Touts Republican Candidate

On the Republican side, President Donald Trump endorsed James, saying he has the "courage and wisdom to deliver strong results for the incredible people of his wonderful State, and our Nation."

Johnson said he thinks Trump "received bad advice," noting James has come up short in two previous statewide races.

‘Trump Loyalty' Ad War Exposes A New Vulnerability For John James In Michigan Gubernatorial Hunt

James and Johnson largely agree on cutting taxes, with James planning to slash the income tax while Johnson wants to eliminate it completely.

James believes stronger economic growth, fewer regulations, and eliminating government waste would eventually reduce the state’s reliance on income tax revenue

Johnson centered his campaign on eliminating the state income tax, which provides roughly 4 percent of discretionary funding for the general fund and School Aid Fund.

He suggested some kind of a statewide efficiency audit to help make up the shortfall.