LOOKING FOR A LANDING SPOT
Speculation over who will run for governor on the Republican ticket in 2026 is beginning to become clearer now that former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox (2003-2011) has officially formed a fundraising committee, Mike Cox 2026. The committee is a campaign committee to explore running for governor, not an official gubernatorial campaign committee – but that’s all likely just semantics, because people in the know say he’s planning on running. He last ran for governor in 2010, coming in third in the primary. He’s since been practicing law, largely on behalf of military veterans. But many don’t remember as far back as the 2000s – which unless he’s very aggressive and becomes pro-MAGA, will hurt him. Who has officially thrown his hat in the ring is current Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt (R-Porter Township) who is looking to introduce himself to voters across the state by getting an early start. His video launch highlighted his family’s farming heritage in southwest Michigan. “Having grown up on a six-generation dairy and grape farm, I know what hard work is about. I know Michiganders expect a governor that works just as hard as they do.” One top Republican said, “He’s a great guy, but while he’s a straight shooter, he’s not dynamic.” The same politico confirmed that perennial-politician-in-search-of-another-job John James, currently congressman for the 10th District, is definitely planning on running for governor – and is confident he’ll get President Trump’s endorsement. “If he loses, he’s a three-time loser (he ran and lost for Senator in 2018 and 2020), and he’s done.” What’s most interesting about James’ unending search for another position is that it’s obvious he’s being groomed for a leadership position by Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA), who has invited him to leadership retreats as well as requested that James nominate him for re-election as speaker on the floor of the House. Other GOP names being bandied about include Bloomfield Hills millionaire Perry Johnson, who has told people he will definitely run, despite lacking a constituency; 2022 Republican candidate Tudor Dixon; and former auto dealer and millionaire Bloomfield Township resident Kevin Rinke. There’s sure to be names that will throw their hat in before the fire’s out… all to battle it out against not only the Democratic candidate, but Detroit Mayor and Independent candidate Mike Duggan, who is actively reaching out to Republicans as well as Democrats in fundraising efforts.
