Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt has dropped out of the 2026 race for governor and endorsed Rep. John James.
Nesbitt, who has served as a state senator since 2018, announced the suspension of his campaign on social media on June 23.
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"I am suspending my campaign and proudly joining President Trump in endorsing John James as Michigan’s next Governor," he said.
Trump announced his endorsement for James on Truth Social on June 22, describing him 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.
Read more--> Trump endorses John James for Michigan governor in 2026 race, calls him ‘America first’ leader
“As Senate Republican Leader, I will keep fighting every single day for the people of Michigan — and starting today, I’ll be fighting to elect John James our next governor," Nesbitt said in a statement.
You can read his full statement below:
When Trisha and I decided to enter this race nearly eighteen months ago, we knew the path to victory would be neither certain nor easy. But we were driven by a deep love for Michigan and an unshakable faith in its people and its future.
We ran to deliver a “Make It In Michigan” agenda for the farmers, families, autoworkers, seniors, and small business owners who have kept this state strong despite years of failed Democratic policies in Lansing. Over the past 18 months, I’ve had the honor of visiting all 83 counties, meeting salt-of-the-earth Michiganders who still believe the American Dream is alive here.
Trisha and I entered this race because we worry that the promise we grew up with — hard work, faith in God, and the drive that built America’s auto industry and middle class — is slipping away for our three young children. I ran to reverse the decline under Democrat control and bring President Trump’s proven successes to Michigan: cutting taxes, lowering costs, deporting criminal illegal immigrants, and restoring manufacturing jobs.
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.
John James is a decorated combat veteran who flew helicopters in Iraq, a successful businessman who created jobs, and a fighter who has consistently stood with President Trump’s agenda. He is the best candidate to defeat the Whitmer-Benson agenda of higher taxes, higher prices, woke policies, and incompetent leadership. A divided primary only helps Democrats. It’s time to unite. 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.
To the hundreds of dedicated volunteers, supporters, and staff — and to every Michigander who offered encouragement and prayers — thank you. I am humbled by your trust and inspired by your belief in our state. To Trisha and our family, thank you for sharing me with this fight. I’m coming home a little sooner, but the mission continues.
As Senate Republican Leader, I will keep fighting every single day for the people of Michigan — and starting today, I’ll be fighting to elect John James our next governor.
Let’s win in November. Let’s Make Michigan Great Again.
Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt
Candidates running for governor
The Republican candidates running for governor of Michigan include Rep. John James, former Michigan attorney general Mike Cox and Oakland County businessman Perry Johnson.
The Democratic candidates running for governor of Michigan are Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson and Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson.