Trump endorses John James for Michigan governor primary

Former President Donald Trump endorsed U.S. Rep. John James in Michigan’s Republican gubernatorial primary on Monday, June 22, 2026, dramatically reshaping the contest just over six weeks before the August 4 primary. The endorsement, announced on Trump’s Truth Social platform, instantly consolidated support around James, prompting one major rival to exit the race while others vowed to continue.

Trump hailed James, a two-term congressman and former U.S. Senate candidate, as an “America First Congressman” with the “Courage and Wisdom” to lead the state. James quickly accepted the backing, calling Trump “the greatest President of my lifetime” and stating the endorsement was “igniting a movement across Michigan.”

The announcement had an immediate impact on the field. Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, who was trailing in polls, suspended his campaign and endorsed James, arguing that Republicans needed to unite to defeat Democrats in November. James praised Nesbitt’s decision as an act of conservative unity.

However, the two other leading candidates signaled they would remain in the race. Businessman Perry Johnson asserted that Trump had received “bad advice,” criticizing...