Republican or Democrat, Michigan could elect its first Black governor in 2026

There have only been three Black governors elected in United States history. Voters in Michigan, Virginia and Florida may soon elect the fourth.

Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist and U.S. Rep. John James

Two Michigan gubernatorial candidates could make history in the state and in the U.S. if elected in 2026.

Electing U.S. Rep. John James or Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist would mean the first time a Black man has held the position in Michigan.

Either would be the fourth Black governor elected in U.S. history. Wes Moore was elected governor of Maryland in 2022. Virginia Governor L. Douglas Wilder, a Democrat, was elected in 1990. And Democrat Deval Patrick was elected in 2007.

More Black candidates across the country are running for governor.

In Florida, U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds has the endorsement of President Donald Trump for the state’s top office for the 2026 election. And in Virginia, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears is the Republican nominee for the state’s gubernatorial election later this year.

James, a Republican, leaned into his family history in the first week of his campaign for governor.

“My father fled the Jim Crow South for Michigan, chasing opportunity,” James said in a social media post. “Today, under failed Democrat leadership, our kids leave for the same reason. With President Donald Trump in the White House and new leadership for our state, we will reignite Michigan's prosperity once again. Let’s Fly!”

James hasn’t shied away from talking about race during his career.