The Ballot Brief
Michigan
Candidate profile
John James

John James

R · Michigan · 2026

On the ballot

GovernorMichigan · 2026
Top priorities
  • Require financial disclosure and end FOIA exemptions for state officials
  • Phase out the state income tax
  • Set a goal of first-in-the-nation education outcomes with phonics-based literacy

Per the campaign site.

Biography

John James is the Republican nominee for Michigan governor and the U.S. representative for Michigan's 10th district, a West Point graduate, combat veteran and businessman. Endorsed by President Trump in June 2026, he took about 50% of the August 4 Republican vote in a four-way field. His campaign platform, which he calls the Freedom Agenda, centers on an anti-corruption package, a phased elimination of the state income tax, education reform, a parents' bill of rights, and a health plan built around price transparency and direct primary care.

Key voting record

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Voting info and more

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Profile facts follow official election office filings and the sources cited in each biography. Official sources are the final word on who appears on your ballot.

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