Kid Rock Endorses John James for Michigan Governor

Detroit-born cultural icon and musician Kid Rock has announced his support for Republican Representative John James in the race for Michigan governor. Known for his strong conservative stance, Kid Rock, whose real name is Robert James Ritchie, endorses James to take over from term-limited Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer in the upcoming 2026 election.

Both the Michigan governor’s seat and an open U.S. Senate seat controlled by Democrats are key targets for the GOP to potentially switch to Republican control in the next November midterm elections.

“As our next Governor of Michigan, I know you will bring many victories to our GREAT STATE!” Kid Rock shared in a statement exclusive to Fox News Digital.

Representative John James, currently serving his second term for a congressional district in suburban Detroit, expressed his gratitude for the endorsement, stating, “Kid Rock is a good friend. We share our love for Detroit, the state of Michigan, and the United States of America!”

James, who is a West Point graduate, Iraq War veteran, and businessman, has previously been the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate in Michigan during 2018 and 2020. He highlighted his long-standing alignment with President Donald Trump since 2018, while other Republicans chose different paths.

Kid Rock’s support aligns with his participation as the headliner for Turning Point USA’s “All-American Halftime Show” during the Super Bowl, providing an alternative to the NFL’s choice of Latin star Bad Bunny for the main halftime performance.

Turning Point USA, co-founded by the late Charlie Kirk, has positioned this event in response to what some conservatives view as inappropriate cultural representation during the football championship.

In the political sphere, Kid Rock is noted for his outspoken support of Donald Trump, participating in his presidential campaigns and adapting his song “American Bad Ass” during the 2024 Republican National Convention to voice his support.

As the Republican race heats up, John James has emerged as a leading candidate among a crowded field, including former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox, Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, former state House Speaker Mike Leonard, and businessman Perry Johnson. Meanwhile, the Democratic ticket is spearheaded by Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, with former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan running as an independent.

This highly competitive gubernatorial race is classified as a toss-up by leading political analysis groups such as the Cook Report, Inside Elections, and Sabato’s Crystal Ball, indicating a potentially close and unpredictable outcome.