Former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox has announced his candidacy for the 2026 governor’s race, joining a growing field of Republicans hoping to succeed term-limited Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Cox previously served as attorney general from 2003 to 2011 and ran unsuccessfully for governor in 2010, coming in third in the Republican primary.
In his campaign announcement, Cox highlighted his experience in protecting people and fighting against criminals, pledging to “Make Michigan Great Again” and prevent radical politicians and woke bureaucrats from undermining the state. He is joining Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt, U.S. Rep. John James, and Anthony Hudson in the Republican primary, while Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II are competing on the Democratic side.
With the GOP aiming to retake the governor’s office after eight years under Whitmer, Cox’s candidacy adds another dimension to the upcoming election. As a former U.S. Marine Corps infantry rifleman and prosecutor, Cox brings a unique background to the political arena and will be looking to secure the Republican nomination to challenge the Democratic candidates.
The 2026 governor’s race in Michigan is shaping up to be a highly contested and crucial election, with Cox’s entry adding further anticipation and interest to the campaign trail. As the field continues to expand on both sides, the race for Michigan’s next governor promises to be closely watched and hotly contested in the coming months.
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