Michigan GOP chair: Debates in 2026 won’t feature as many candidates for governor

LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Michigan Republican Party chair Jim Runestad says the debates by the party’s hopefuls for governor will be smaller in 2026.

Three party-run debates have been held so far, with the last one featuring six candidates.

Runestad says candidates without name ID or money will not be invited to debates.

Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt of Van Buren County was viewed by attendees at the most recent debate in Traverse City as the frontrunner with over 55% support.