Top MI Republican Announces He Will Run For Governor In 2026

MICHIGAN — The first Republican has tossed his name into Michigan's 2026 governor's race.

Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt announced Tuesday morning that he will seek the Republican nomination for governor in 2026.

Nesbitt, the top Republican in the Michigan Senate, currently represents the state's 20th District, which includes portions of Allegan, Berrien, Kent and Van Buren counties.

"The people of Michigan have been left behind under Democrat rule as they’ve raised taxes, wasted a $9 billion surplus, chose politically-motivated corporate handouts over fixing our roads and tried to impose their left-wing ideology on all of us," Nesbitt said in a statement. "As governor, I will put Michigan first by supporting taxpayers over the woke left, empowering parents, keeping families safe and standing with President (Donald) Trump to revive our manufacturing industry and Make Michigan Great Again."

Nesbitt is the first to toss his name into what is expected to be a crowded Republican primary for the 2026 governor's race.

A top candidate has yet to emerge on the Democrat's side, but those considering a run for the 2026 race include Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson and U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Last month, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan announced he will run for governor, but surprised many when he said he will run as an Independent and not a Democrat.