Republican Congressman John James announced he’s joining the race for Michigan’s next governor.
James, who currently represents Michigan’s 10th Congressional District, announced his run in the following statement on Monday, April 7, 2025:
DEAR MICHIGAN FAMILY,
I’m running for Governor of the great state of Michigan.
This decision comes after deep reflection, prayer, and conversations with my wife and children. We’ll have the rallies and the balloons soon—but first, I want to share exactly why I’m doing this.
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.
For the past seven years, Michigan has been dominated by radical, out-of-touch policies that have hurt our families, our communities, and our economy. We’ve lost over 300,000 manufacturing jobs since NAFTA—nearly a third of our industrial base. That’s unacceptable.
I’ve run a Michigan automotive business that created jobs. I’ve worn the uniform of the United States in combat. I don’t leave people behind—and I won’t start now.
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.
This won’t be easy. But I believe in you. I believe in Michigan. And I believe that together, we can lead a comeback that starts with you!
Let’s fly
John
John James
James is one of three Republicans to launch his run for governor ahead of the 2026 election, joining Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt and Anthony Hudson, a truck driver from Genesee County.
Three Democrats have also entered the race, including Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson, and Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan also announced he would be running as an Independent.
For more information on the candidates who have already joined the race, visit here.
