Nesbitt Drops Out of Gubernatorial Race, Throws Support Behind James

LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – State Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt dropped out of the GOP gubernatorial primary on Monday night after President Donald Trump endorsed U.S. Congressman John James.

Nesbitt wrote on X, “This campaign has always been about the people of Michigan and standing with President Trump to defeat the Democrats in November. Today, I am suspending my campaign and proudly joining President Trump in endorsing John James as Michigan’s next Governor.”

When Trisha and I decided to enter this race nearly eighteen months ago, we knew the path to victory would be neither certain nor easy. But we were driven by a deep love for Michigan and an unshakable faith in its people and its future.

We ran to deliver a “Make It In Michigan”…

— Aric Nesbitt (@aricnesbitt) June 22, 2026

Nesbitt’s exit leaves three candidates in the GOP field: James, former Attorney General Mike Cox, and businessman Perry Johnson.

The two Democrats running are Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson.

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