Trump Ally John James Gearing Up for Michigan Governor Race [WATCH]

With 576 days remaining until the 2026 midterm elections on Tuesday, November 3, Republican Congressman John James is reportedly preparing to launch a statewide campaign for Michigan governor. The seat will be open due to Governor Gretchen Whitmer being term-limited after two terms in office.

According to a Republican source familiar with the matter, James is expected to receive an endorsement from President Donald Trump, which could significantly shape the upcoming GOP primary.

“John James is definitely running for governor, and he’s putting together a great team. He expects to get Trump’s endorsement, which should clear out the field,” the source told Deadline Detroit on the condition of anonymity.

“People are going to run against him, but how are they going to win?”

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The move comes after James, currently serving in Congress, previously ran two statewide campaigns for U.S. Senate in Michigan.

He ran against Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow in 2018 and against Senator Gary Peters in 2020.

James narrowly lost both contests but gained national attention and fundraising support during both races.

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While speculation about James’ potential run had circulated in recent weeks, the confirmation from sources close to the campaign marks a significant development in the early stages of the 2026 Michigan gubernatorial race.

The announcement also comes shortly after former Republican gubernatorial nominee Tudor Dixon confirmed she will not be seeking the office again.

James represents Michigan’s 10th Congressional District.

If he moves forward with a gubernatorial run, it is not yet clear whether he would simultaneously seek re-election to Congress.

His district, located in Macomb County, has been considered competitive in recent cycles.

Faith and Family.
God and Country.
Service Before Self.

Michigan First. pic.twitter.com/drYWqGSi3C

— John James (@JohnJamesMI) April 7, 2025

The U.S. Senate seat currently held by Democrat Gary Peters will also be on the ballot in 2026.

Peters has announced that he will not seek re-election, opening the door to another high-profile race. However, James is not expected to pursue the Senate seat this time.

James’ early positioning in the race, combined with the expected endorsement from Trump, could give him a significant advantage in consolidating Republican support and avoiding a prolonged primary battle.

The Republican source emphasized the potential strategic benefits of Trump’s involvement early in the race.

“If President Trump endorses him soon, it will help the party avoid a long primary and allow them to unify behind one candidate,” the source said.

Michigan has been a key battleground in national elections, and while it has leaned blue in recent cycles, Republican candidates remain competitive in down-ballot races, particularly in midterm years.

A candidate with previous statewide experience and presidential backing could alter the political landscape.

As James prepares to make his decision official, campaign infrastructure—including staffing, funding, and logistics—will need to be put in place.

Political observers expect more developments in the coming months as the GOP field begins to take shape.

The Michigan governor’s race is expected to be one of the most closely watched contests of the 2026 midterms.

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