U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, announced Monday that he’s running to be Michigan’s next governor.
“Our state has suffered long enough. Michigan is strong. Our people are strong. But we are being held back by a lack of strong, competent leadership — leadership with real-world experience in the areas Michiganders need most,” James said in a statement Monday posted to his X account.
James’ entry into the race expands the GOP gubernatorial field, which currently includes Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, R-Porter Township, and Anthony Hudson, who describes himself on his campaign website as a Texas native who fell in love with Michigan. Former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox expressed interest in running late last year. Former GOP gubernatorial candidate Tudor Dixon has said she’s considering running for governor or U.S. Senate.Â
On the Democratic side, the race features Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson.
But the race may not be a typical red-blue affair. Longtime Democrat Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has decided to run as an independent candidate for governor, skipping the primary election.
More candidates could enter the race.Â
Due to term limits, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer cannot run for her current job again.
James currently represents Michigan’s 10th Congressional District, which includes parts of Macomb and Oakland counties. He was first elected to Congress in 2022, winning by a very narrow margin. He prevailed again in 2024 in another competitive race, and his decision to run as governor potentially gives Democrats a chance to flip a seat. Previously, James ran unsuccessfully to represent Michigan in the U.S. Senate in 2018 and 2020. President Donald Trump has endorsed James in previous races.
James in his statement announcing his campaign, reiterated his strong support for Trump, whose backing could prove crucial in a Republican primary. “It’s time to get Michigan’s government out of fantasyland and back to common sense. President Trump and I have been in each other’s corner through thick and thin for eight years — no reason that will end now. He’s doing his part to Make America Great Again, and I’ll do mine to bring prosperity and sanity back to Michigan,” he said.
James is a businessman and former Army helicopter pilot. He serves on the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce. James is currently the only Black member of Michigan’s congressional delegation. In a speech at the Republican National Convention last year, he spoke of his parents’ encounters with racism but said “it did not define the nation they love.”Â
Michigan’s gubernatorial election will take place in 2026 and the state’s next governor will take office at the start of 2027.
Contact Clara Hendrickson: chendrickson@freepress.com or 313-296-5743.Â
