GOP Sen. Aric Nesbitt drops out of Michigan's gubernatorial race, endorses Congressman John James
Michigan Senator Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt announced on Monday that he is stepping down from the gubernatorial race, less than three months before the August primary election.
The Republican senator, who announced his campaign in January 2025, said in a social media post that he was suspending his campaign and supporting Congressman John James, who received an endorsement for governor from President Trump on Monday.
"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," Nesbitt wrote in the post.
Nesbitt was elected to the Michigan Senate in 2018 and currently represents portions of Van Buren, Allegan and Kent counties. In April, Nesbitt participated in a debate with other Republican candidates held by the Oakland County Republican Party. James did not attend the event.
Now, Nesbitt said his focus is on getting James elected, calling James "a fighter who has consistently stood with President Trump's agenda." James, who was reelected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2024, announced his gubernatorial campaign in April 2025. He currently represents Michigan's 10th congressional district.
"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," Nesbitt said.
Other Republicans still in the race include former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox and businessman Perry Johnson. Meanwhile, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson are running on the Democratic side. Other gubernatorial candidates include Michigan resident Anthony Hudson.
The list of candidates has gradually slimmed down over the last six months, with Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist dropping out in January 2026 to pursue the Michigan Secretary of State. Gilchrist received a nomination for SOS from the Michigan Democratic Party.
Former Michigan House Speaker Tom Leonard and former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan also backed out of the race in April and May, respectively. On May 28, the Michigan Board of State Canvassers determined that Democrat Kim Thomas and Republican Ralph Rebandt failed to meet the state's threshold for valid signatures.
The primary election is set for Tuesday, Aug. 4.
