Kid Rock supports Rep. John James in the 2026 Michigan governor election

Kid Rock Endorses John James in Michigan Gubernatorial Race

Kid Rock, the well-known musician from Detroit, is stepping into the political arena by endorsing Republican U.S. Rep. John James for the upcoming gubernatorial race in Michigan. James is vying to take over for the term-limited Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer in 2026. Kid Rock, who often embodies a working-class ethos and holds conservative views, expressed his support in a statement released via FOX News Digital.

The political landscape in Michigan is primed for change, especially with both the governor’s office and a vacant U.S. Senate seat seen as prime targets for Republicans during the midterm elections this November.

“As the next Governor of Michigan, I know you will bring many victories to our great state,” said Kid Rock, whose real name is Robert James Ritchie.

In response to the endorsement, James noted, “Kid Rock is a good friend, and we share a love for Detroit, Michigan, and the United States of America.” He expressed gratitude for Kid Rock’s support, viewing it as a testament to their shared commitment to advancing Michigan.

James, serving his second term representing a suburban area of Detroit, also highlighted his military background as a West Point graduate and Iraq War veteran. He previously ran for Senate twice in Michigan. Notably, Kid Rock’s endorsement came just ahead of his performance at Turning Point USA’s “All American Halftime Show” during the Super Bowl, an event designed to counter the NFL’s halftime performance.

Kid Rock has long been an advocate for former President Donald Trump, having supported him in all three presidential campaigns. At the 2024 Republican National Convention, he even performed a customized rendition of his song “American Bad Ass” in support of Trump. While Trump is still a powerful figure in the Republican Party, he has not yet taken sides in the Michigan gubernatorial race.

James’s campaign noted that he has consistently aligned himself with Trump since 2018, even when others swayed in their support. The campaign emphasized that both Rock and James have strong ties to Detroit and advocate for a Michigan defined by hard work and rich culture.

Currently, James is leading in polls among a crowded field of Republicans competing for nomination in the August primary. His opponents include former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox and Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, among others. On the Democratic side, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is the front-runner, while former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is running as an independent.