LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Republican Congressman John James officially announced his candidacy for governor of Michigan.

James, a native of Detroit and graduate of West Point, brings military discipline and business experience to the race. After unsuccessfully running for the U.S. Senate in 2018 and 2020, he won a congressional race in 2022. James, whom President Donald Trump once called “a rising star” adds significant momentum to the Republican field. He seeks to replace Democrat Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in November 2026. She cannot run again because of term limits.

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James joins Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt as the latest major Republican to jump into the race. Democrats Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson are running in the Democratic primary. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan switched from the Democratic party and is running as an independent.