MI Republican Drops Out Of Governor's Race

Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt announced late Monday that he is dropping out of the 2026 governor's race.

His announcement to leave the race comes just after President Donald Trump endorsed fellow Republican Rep. John James for governor.

"I am suspending my campaign and proudly joining President Trump in endorsing John James as Michigan’s next Governor," Nesbitt said. "As Senate Republican Leader, I will keep fighting every single day for the people of Michigan — and starting today, I’ll be fighting to elect John James our next governor."

Nesbitt's exit leaves former Michigan attorney general Mike Cox and Oakland County businessman Perry Johnson and Rep. John James for the Republican nomination.

Democrats running for the office include Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson and Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson.

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