The race to replace Michigan's term-limited Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer is gaining momentum as Republican State Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt announces his candidacy. Nesbitt is the first major party contender to officially enter the 2026 gubernatorial race.

In his campaign launch video, Nesbitt stressed his focus on prioritizing Michigan's families and workers, emphasizing his belief in empowering taxpayers over "tax-takers." He also expressed his alignment with former President Trump's vision for revitalizing Michigan's manufacturing sector.

Nesbitt's announcement marks the beginning of what is expected to be a competitive race with a crowded field of potential candidates. On the Republican side, former Attorney General Mike Cox, Congressman John James, former State House Speaker Tom Leonard, businessman Kevin Rinke, 2022 gubernatorial nominee Tudor Dixon, and former gubernatorial and presidential candidate Perry Johnson are all considered potential contenders. Among Democrats, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and State Senator Mallory McMorrow are potential candidates.

Adding another layer of intrigue to the race is Detroit's Democratic Mayor Mike Duggan, who recently announced his independent candidacy for governor.

Michigan's status as a key battleground state adds significance to this gubernatorial race. President Biden narrowly won the state in 2020, and while President-elect Trump secured a slim victory in the recent election, Democrats managed to retain a highly contested Senate seat. The upcoming gubernatorial election will likely be closely watched as a barometer of the state's political landscape.