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.

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 announced Tuesday that he is seeking the Republican nomination for governor on the 2026 ballot. Rick Pluta reports.

Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt announced early Tuesday morning he is running for governor. Nesbitt was elected to serve as a state senator in 2018. He currently serves Michigan’s 20th Senate District, which represents portions of Berrien, Van Buren, Allegan and Kent counties.

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

Republican state Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt announced his candidacy, becoming the first major party candidate in Michigan to launch a gubernatorial campaign in the race to succeed term-limited Democratic Gov.

In a video announcement Tuesday morning, Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt (R-Porter Twp.) officially became the first Republican candidate to throw his hat into the ring for Michigan governor in 2026.

Aric Nesbitt, the Republican Senate Leader has a long career in GOP politics. He launched his bid for Michigan governor Tuesday.