Feb 8 β€’ 21:56 UTC πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ USA Fox News

SCOOP: Trump ally Kid Rock jumps into key governor's race with high-profile endorsement

Kid Rock publicly endorses Republican John James in the Michigan gubernatorial race aimed at succeeding Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Kid Rock, the iconic musician and outspoken supporter of conservative politics, has made headlines by endorsing Republican Rep. John James for the Michigan governor's race in 2026. Known for his working-class persona, Kid Rock is a notable figure in Michigan, where his support could potentially sway voters in the upcoming election. In a statement shared exclusively with Fox News, Kid Rock expressed confidence in James's ability to lead the state, suggesting that he would 'bring many victories' to Michigan.

John James, who is currently serving his second term in a suburban Detroit congressional district, is seen as a strong candidate to challenge for the governorship following the term limit of the current Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer. His campaign is part of a larger strategy for the Republican party, which is looking to flip key seats in Michigan, including the governor's office and a Democrat-held U.S. Senate seat in the forthcoming midterm elections. James has publicly welcomed Kid Rock's endorsement, referring to him as a good friend and emphasizing their shared love for Detroit and Michigan.

This endorsement highlights the importance of cultural icons in political campaigns, especially in states like Michigan where local identity and values can heavily influence voter decisions. Kid Rock's backing of James not only adds name recognition but also reinforces the Republican narrative in a battleground state that could determine the balance of power in forthcoming congressional elections. As the race heats up, both candidates will likely leverage this endorsement to rally support among conservative voters and those who resonate with Kid Rock's image and message.

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