On June 23, 2026, President Donald Trump endorsed Republican Representative John James in his campaign for governor of Michigan. This endorsement comes as Michigan Republicans aim to gain control of the governor's office for the first time since Rick Snyder's tenure ended in 2019. The race is expected to be competitive, with a slight advantage for Democrats, as Republicans have not won a governor's race in Michigan since 2014.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed his support for James, highlighting his military background and experience as a businessman and congressman. James thanked Trump for the endorsement, stating that it is energizing his campaign and criticizing current Democratic leadership.
Following Trump's announcement, Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt suspended his campaign and endorsed James. Other candidates in the GOP primary include businessman Perry Johnson and former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox. Johnson criticized Trump's endorsement, suggesting that defeating James in the primary is essential for Republican success in the state.
Democratic candidates for governor include Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Sheriff Chris Swanson of Genesee County. The Michigan primary is scheduled for August 4.