Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt dropped out of the 2026 governor’s race on June 23 and endorsed U.S. Rep. John James, consolidating GOP support behind the congressman just hours after President Donald Trump threw his weight behind him.
Nesbitt announced his decision to suspend his campaign via social media, stating: “I am suspending my campaign and proudly joining President Trump in endorsing John James as Michigan’s next Governor.” Trump had made his endorsement public on June 22 via Truth Social, writing: “John James has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Governor of Michigan — HE WILL NOT DOWN!”
The moves come less than six weeks before Michigan’s August 4 Republican gubernatorial primary. Political observers have described Trump’s endorsement as critical in the intraparty contest, where James faces former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox and businessman Perry Johnson. Nesbitt, who has served as a state senator since 2018, cited party unity as his reason for exiting. “A divided primary only helps Democrats,” he said in his statement. “It’s time to unite.”
James, a West Point graduate and Iraq War combat veteran who has represented Michigan’s 10th Congressional District in the House since 2023, responded to Trump’s backing on X. “Thank you, President Donald J. Trump. The greatest President of my lifetime. Your endorsement is igniting a movement across Michigan, and we are ready to win!” he wrote.
In his endorsement, Trump outlined what he said James would prioritize as governor: “As your next Governor, John will fight tirelessly to Grow the Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE, Keep our Border SECURE, Strengthen our Brave Military/Veterans, Safeguard our Elections, Defend our always under siege Second Amendment, and Advocate for the Working Men and Women of Michigan.” Trump also described James as an “America First Congressman” and highlighted his background as a businessman who has created jobs.
Nesbitt’s full statement emphasized that the primary race had always been about defeating Democrats in November. He wrote: “This campaign has always been about the people of Michigan and standing with President Trump to defeat the Democrats in November.” He urged his supporters to back James, saying: “I’m asking every one of you who supported this campaign to stand with me behind John James, roll up our sleeves, and deliver a Republican victory in November.”
The Democratic side of the 2026 race features Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson competing in their own primary. Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, is term-limited and cannot seek reelection.
Sources
- ClickOnDetroit — Nesbitt’s announcement of his campaign suspension and endorsement of John James, with his full statement
- Detroit Free Press — Trump’s endorsement on Truth Social, James’s response, and analysis of the GOP primary race
- Michigan Public — Confirmation of Trump endorsement and Nesbitt’s exit announcement
- The Detroit News — Trump’s announcement and timing relative to absentee voting
