LANSING, Mich. – President Donald Trump has endorsed U.S. Rep. John James in his campaign for Michigan governor, calling him a strong candidate who can deliver results for the state.
Trump announced his endorsement on Truth Social on Monday (June 22), describing James as an “America First Congressman” and highlighting his background as a West Point graduate, combat pilot, Iraq War veteran, businessman, and current member of Congress.
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“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,” Trump wrote.
Trump said James would focus on growing the economy, cutting taxes and regulations, promoting domestic manufacturing, expanding energy production, securing the border, supporting the military and veterans, protecting elections, and defending gun rights.
“John James has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Governor of Michigan — HE WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!” Trump wrote.
James responds, outlines campaign priorities
James, who represents Michigan’s 10th Congressional District, thanked Trump for the endorsement in a post on X (formerly Twitter), saying the support would help energize his campaign.
“Your endorsement is igniting a movement across Michigan, and we are ready to win!” James wrote.
James said his campaign would focus on lowering taxes, reducing energy costs, auditing government spending, increasing election security, improving public safety, and giving parents more control over education decisions.
James also criticized Democratic leaders, including Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, accusing their policies of driving up costs and hurting Michigan families.
He said his campaign would work to make Michigan “prosperous, safe, affordable, and educated again.”
Thank you, President Donald J. Trump. The greatest President of my lifetime.
— John James (@JohnJamesMI) June 22, 2026
Your endorsement is igniting a movement across Michigan, and we are ready to win!
Together, we will send Mike Rogers to the United States Senate, protect our Republican held U.S. House seats, and Make… pic.twitter.com/GwoWw7dgMq
Benson campaign fires back
The Benson for Governor campaign responded to the endorsement, saying it demonstrates James is aligned with Trump’s agenda.
“Donald Trump’s endorsement of John James is just more proof for voters that James will put his own extreme agenda ahead of what’s right for Michigan,” campaign manager Nikki Goldschein said in a statement.
The Benson campaign said Democratic candidate Jocelyn Benson is focused on affordability and real solutions for Michigan residents, arguing that voters will face a choice between what it called “more political games” and a focus on the state’s residents’ needs.
The endorsement comes as the race for Michigan governor begins to take shape ahead of the November 2026 election.