Lansing, MI — Former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox announced his candidacy for the 2026 gubernatorial race on Tuesday, adding his name to a growing list of Republicans vying to succeed term-limited Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
Cox, who served as the state’s attorney general from 2003 to 2011, is making his second attempt at the governorship, having previously entered the race in 2010, where he ultimately placed third in the Republican primary. This time, he is hoping for a different outcome, launching his campaign with a message of restoring Michigan’s strength under the slogan, “Make Michigan Great Again.”
In a campaign video released on Tuesday, Cox framed his bid as a defense against what he sees as the growing influence of “radical politicians” and “woke bureaucrats” in the state. “I’ve protected people my entire life, fought and beat the worst of the worst,” Cox said. “Let’s not stand by and let radical politicians or woke bureaucrats undermine us any longer.”
Cox joins a competitive Republican field that already includes Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt and U.S. Rep. John James. On the Democratic side, the race is equally crowded, with Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II both seeking their party’s nomination. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, a former Democrat, is running as an independent.
Republicans are hopeful about retaking the governor’s office in 2026 after eight years under Whitmer’s leadership. During her tenure, Whitmer led the state through significant policy changes, particularly during the pandemic, and oversaw full Democratic control of the state Legislature from 2022 to 2024. While the GOP regained control of the state House in 2024, both legislative chambers will be up for grabs in the coming election.
Cox’s political resume is extensive. Before his tenure as attorney general, he served as a U.S. Marine Corps infantry rifleman. He later transitioned into law and went on to defeat Democratic Sen. Gary Peters in 2002, becoming Michigan’s first Republican attorney general in over four decades.
As the 2026 election approaches, Cox’s bid for governor will be a key moment in the broader political landscape of Michigan, which is experiencing an ongoing shift in power dynamics. His ability to tap into the concerns of Michigan voters and present a clear contrast to the Democratic leadership could prove pivotal as the race begins to take shape.
A Closer Look at the Race
With the field of candidates on both sides growing, the 2026 race for governor is shaping up to be a closely watched contest. On the Republican side, Cox’s campaign will likely highlight his tough-on-crime stance, his legal background, and his experience fighting for conservative principles during his time as attorney general.
Meanwhile, his opponents, including Nesbitt and James, will also have their own visions for the state’s future. On the Democratic side, the competition between Benson and Gilchrist, as well as Duggan’s independent bid, suggests a spirited contest for the state’s leadership in the years to come.
For now, Cox’s candidacy is sure to add new energy to Michigan’s political scene as he seeks to make his case to voters who may be ready for a change after eight years under Whitmer’s administration. The race is just beginning, but it’s clear that Michigan’s gubernatorial election in 2026 will be one to watch closely.
