Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt (R) launched his gubernatorial bid Tuesday, becoming the first Republican to jump into the race ahead of the 2026 midterms. “Michiganders deserve

State Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt is the second well-known candidate to enter the race to succeed Whitmer, who has two years remaining in her final term after being reelected in 2022. The open governor’s seat in 2026 is expected to spark competitive primaries.

State Senator Aric Nesbitt, a Republican from Lawton, has announced his campaign​ for the Michigan governor's race.