Five Michigan candidates enter final stretch to replace Whitmer

Governor Gretchen Whitmer is term-limited, leaving five candidates to compete for the state’s top executive office in the November 2026 midterm election. The winner will share power with the state Legislature to pass laws and budgets, appoint state agency leaders, and manage the state’s relationship with federal officials.

Michigan Public requested interviews with all five contenders to determine their positions on key issues. Only Republican candidate John James declined the invitation. The remaining four candidates provided their views on how they would address the challenges facing Michigan residents.

The candidates discussed the economic squeeze caused by rising prices and stagnant wages. While some drivers of inflation stem from national and international factors beyond the governor’s direct control, the incoming leader will still have tools to help households manage costs.

Data centers have become a central point of contention in Michigan. Debates over the location of these facilities have involved residents, private companies, and public officials. The next governor will decide whether to maintain the current policy path or implement a dramatic shift in how the state handles these projects.

Polls indicate that threats to democracy are a top concern for Michigan voters. The next chief executive will determine which of these threats to emphasize and will work with other elected officials to address them, whether they are perceived as real or imagined.

The election is scheduled for the 2026 midterm cycle. The five candidates on the ballot will vie for the seat currently held by Whitmer, who is stepping down due to term limits.