Kid Rock Endorses John James for Michigan Governor

Detroit native and cultural icon, Kid Rock, has announced his support for Republican Representative John James in the upcoming 2026 Michigan governor’s race. Known for his conservative views, the celebrated musician has chosen to back James in the effort to succeed Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who cannot run again due to term limits.

The Michigan governor’s seat and a Democratic-held U.S. Senate seat are pivotal targets for the Republican Party in the forthcoming midterm elections. Kid Rock, born Robert James Ritchie, expressed his enthusiasm in a statement shared with Fox News Digital, saying, “As our next Governor of Michigan, I know you will bring many victories to our GREAT STATE!”

The talented musician and entertainer is a prominent supporter of former President Donald Trump, having backed him throughout his presidential campaigns. Kid Rock’s endorsement comes just before his performance at Turning Point USA’s ‘All-American Halftime Show’ during the Super Bowl.

Turning Point USA, co-founded by late Charlie Kirk, organized this event as an alternative to the NFL’s halftime show, in response to their choice of Latin music star Bad Bunny as the official performer.

John James, currently representing a swing district in suburban Detroit, expressed his gratitude for Kid Rock’s endorsement. “Kid Rock is a good friend. We share our love for Detroit, the state of Michigan, and the United States of America! I’m honored to have the endorsement of this unapologetic freedom-loving patriot,” he stated. James is a West Point graduate, Iraq War veteran, and a businessman who previously ran for the Senate in 2018 and 2020.

This backing is significant as James is the frontrunner among Republicans aiming for the 2026 gubernatorial nomination, as indicated by current polls. The race also includes notable figures like former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox, Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, and others vying for the Republican nomination. On the Democratic side, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is leading among those seeking the nomination.

Additionally, former three-term Democratic mayor of Detroit, Mike Duggan, is running for governor as an independent. The Michigan governor’s race is considered highly competitive, with political analysts at the Cook Report, Inside Elections, and Sabato’s Crystal Ball rating it a toss-up.