Michigan Republicans nominated Jay DeBoyer as lieutenant governor alongside John James at their Mount Pleasant convention, emphasizing opposition to Democratic policies and outlining priorities for the 2026 election cycle.
The Michigan Republican Party officially selected its 2026 statewide ticket during a convention held Saturday in Mount Pleasant, naming state Rep. Jay DeBoyer as the lieutenant governor candidate to run with gubernatorial nominee John James. The event drew approximately 1,900 delegates and centered on calls for party unity and opposition to Democratic leadership in Lansing.
DeBoyer described the Republican ticket as a determined conservative team prepared to challenge Democratic policies, while James and other speakers framed the upcoming election as a critical moment to prevent what they called the spread of socialism in Michigan. The convention took place at the Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort, where party leaders outlined their vision for the state's future.
Emphasis on State Issues, Not Trump
Throughout the convention, speakers focused on state-level concerns such as education, infrastructure, and public safety, with only minimal references to President Donald Trump. Party chair Jim Runestad told reporters that Michigan candidates should prioritize local issues, citing concerns about reading scores, road conditions, and the state's economic outlook. Republican nominees for attorney general and secretary of state, Doug Lloyd and Anthony Forlini, also avoided direct discussion of Trump, instead highlighting their commitment to Michigan's needs.
The party's approach reflects a broader trend in the state's political landscape, where candidates are seeking to distinguish themselves from national controversies and focus on issues that resonate with Michigan voters. This strategy comes as Trump's approval ratings have reached their lowest point of his presidency, according to recent polling.
Policy Priorities and Legislative Goals
Republican leaders at the convention outlined several legislative priorities should they regain control of the governor's office and both chambers of the legislature. These include banning gender transition surgery for minors, reinstating a requirement that third graders pass a reading test to advance, cutting property taxes, and cracking down on price gouging. House Speaker Matt Hall emphasized the importance of winning both the Senate and the House to enact these policies.
DeBoyer described the party's agenda as "common sense and simple," focusing on law enforcement, education, infrastructure, and reducing the size of government. The GOP hopes to build on its momentum from the March endorsement convention, which selected Anthony Forlini and Doug Lloyd for secretary of state and attorney general, respectively.
Efforts to Broaden Appeal
Some criticism has emerged regarding the lack of a woman at the top of the Republican ticket for the first time since 1978. However, party members pointed to several women running for other statewide offices, including the state Board of Education and the Michigan Supreme Court. Julie Maday, a candidate for the Michigan State University Board of Trustees, argued that the party's full slate demonstrates its commitment to diverse representation.
Meanwhile, Democrats are scheduled to meet on August 29 to finalize their own ticket, with Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks expected to join Jocelyn Benson as the lieutenant governor candidate. The Democratic ticket also includes Garlin Gilchrist for secretary of state and Eli Savit for attorney general. For more on the Senate race shaping up between Mike Rogers and Abdul El-Sayed, see this analysis of the key issues in Michigan's U.S. Senate contest.
The Republican convention's focus on state-specific issues and legislative goals signals a strategic effort to connect with Michigan voters ahead of the 2026 election, as both parties prepare for a competitive campaign season.
The Michigan Republican Party's nominating convention is a key step in the state's election process, where delegates select candidates for top statewide offices. The party's emphasis on legislative priorities and unity reflects ongoing efforts to regain control of state government, which has shifted between parties in recent election cycles. The next major milestone will be the Democratic convention, after which the general election campaign will intensify across Michigan.
