Michigan Senate GOP leader launches bid for governor

Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt (R) launched his gubernatorial bid Tuesday, becoming the first Republican to jump into the race ahead of the 2026 midterms. 

“Michiganders deserve so much better than what they’re getting from these Democrats up in Lansing,” Nesbitt said in an announcement video. “What we’ve seen is higher taxes, more spending, more debt, and less jobs.” 

In the video, Nesbitt detailed his family’s history of farming in Lawton, located in the southwest region of the state. 

Additionally, Nesbitt called for an end to the state’s electric vehicle mandates, greater investment in manufacturing, and a ban on sanctuary cities. 

Nesbitt joins Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, who is running as an independent in the race. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) is term-limited and cannot seek a third term in 2026. A number of other Republicans have been floated as potential candidates including former gubernatorial nominee Tudor Dixon, Rep. John James (R-Mich.), former Michigan state House Speaker Tom Leonard, and former presidential candidate Perry Johnson. 

A number of Democrats have also been floated for the position, including Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow. 

Democrats saw statewide victories up and down the ballot in 2022, but President-elect Trump flipped the state in 2024.