President Donald Trump endorsed U.S. Representative John James in the Michigan gubernatorial race on Monday. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, "It is my Great Honor to endorse America First Congressman, John James, who is running to become the next Governor of the Beautiful State of Michigan!" He emphasized his support by declaring, "John James has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Governor of Michigan — HE WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!" James expressed gratitude towards Trump, referring to him as "The greatest President of my lifetime" in his social media posts.
Following Trump's endorsement, Michigan state Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt withdrew from the gubernatorial primary and endorsed James. Nesbitt stated, "This campaign has always been about the people of Michigan and standing with President Trump to defeat the Democrats in November. Today, I am suspending my campaign and proudly joining President Trump in endorsing John James as Michigan’s next Governor." He called for unity among Republican supporters to ensure a victory in the upcoming election.
James responded to Nesbitt's endorsement by stating, "When President Trump endorsed this campaign, Aric Nesbitt did exactly what a true Michigan CONSERVATIVE should do: He united behind the President and our mission to Save Michigan from the Libs and the RINOs destroying our Republic!"
Businessman Perry Johnson, another candidate in the Republican primary, criticized Trump's endorsement, claiming that James had previously lost statewide elections. Johnson remarked, "President Trump received bad advice yet again. John James is a two-time statewide loser, and Michigan has already seen this movie before."
Former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox, also a candidate, highlighted his past successes in Michigan elections and expressed his support for Trump, stating, "I look forward to being President Trump’s favorite Governor when I win."