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Michigan is set to host two high-profile contests in 2026 – an open governor’s race and an open U.S. Senate seat – and former Republican gubernatorial nominee Tudor Dixon is considering entering one of them? (foxnews.com). Dixon, a conservative commentator and businesswoman, announced Tuesday that she is “considering a run for governor or U.S. Senate” and will decide soon which campaign would allow her to “do the most good” for the state ?(quikreader.com).
Dixon’s statement, released on social media, noted that both the gubernatorial and Senate races present “unique opportunities” to benefit Michigan?. Her deliberation comes as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer cannot run again due to term limits and Sen. Gary Peters has opted to retire, ensuring hotly contested battles for both seats?.
Background: 2022 Gubernatorial Run
Dixon was a first-time candidate when she captured the GOP nomination for Michigan governor in 2022, boosted by a late endorsement from then-President Donald Trump just before the primary?. She built a coalition of supporters that year – including the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, the Police Officers Association of Michigan, and the anti-abortion group Right to Life of Michigan – underlining her conservative platform?. In the general election, Dixon lost to incumbent Gov. Whitmer by 10 percentage points (44% to 54%), as the issue of abortion rights dominated the fall campaign?. Since that defeat, Dixon has remained active in politics through a commentary podcast and frequent appearances on conservative media, and she served as a Michigan surrogate for Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign?. (detroitnews.com)
Political Stances and Trump Alliance
In her recent announcement, Dixon praised President Trump for “leading the way nationally” and delivering on promises to secure the border, revive manufacturing jobs, and boost energy independence?. She reaffirmed her commitment to Trump’s “America First” agenda, vowing to “stand with President Trump” to implement those policies in Michigan?. Dixon’s close alignment with Trump is notable – his 2022 endorsement helped propel her to the nomination?. (foxnews.com), and she continues to court his base. On social issues, Dixon campaigned as a staunch conservative; for example, she supports banning abortion in almost all cases, a stance that energized anti-abortion allies but drew fire from Democrats during her 2022 run?. (detroitnews.com).
Possible 2026 Governor Race Field
If Dixon enters the 2026 governor’s race, she would join a growing Republican primary field. Three Republicans – including former state Attorney General Mike Cox and state Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt – have already formed campaign committees for governor?. Many in the party also expect U.S. Rep. John James to launch a gubernatorial bid; like Dixon, James has run statewide before and has close ties to Trump, who remains an influential figure in Michigan GOP politics?. On the Democratic side, several high-profile candidates are lining up to succeed Whitmer. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson have all signaled plans to run for governor as Democrats?. In an unusual twist, Detroit’s Democratic mayor, Mike Duggan, announced an independent campaign for governor late last year, setting the stage for a potentially multi-front race?. (detroitnews.com)
Eyes on Michigan’s Open Senate Seat
Dixon is equally weighing a campaign for the U.S. Senate, where Michigan will have an open seat due to Sen. Peters’ retirement? (quikreader.com). Former Congressman Mike Rogers – who narrowly lost a Senate race in 2024 – has indicated he plans to run again in 2026?. Dixon’s entry into the Senate primary could set up a clash with Rogers; one veteran GOP strategist said her candidacy would “complicate” the race and force Rogers “to fight a two-front war” for the nomination?. Rogers demonstrated strong fundraising and came within 0.3 percentage points of victory last cycle?, but Dixon enjoys popularity among the party’s grassroots activists that Rogers sometimes struggles with? (detroitnews.com). Other Republicans, such as Rep. Bill Huizenga, are also reportedly mulling Senate bids in Michigan?, signaling a competitive GOP field. On the Democratic side, attention is turning to figures like State Sen. Mallory McMorrow, who is widely expected to run after gaining national attention with a viral 2022 speech?. Additional Democratic contenders could include state Attorney General Dana Nessel and U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, who have each expressed interest in the Senate race?. (foxnews.com)
Dixon has not given a specific timeline for her decision, but she said she will choose “soon” which path to pursue?. (quikreader.com). Whichever race she enters, her candidacy is poised to shape the Republican primary and will be watched closely in a state that is often a presidential battleground. Both Michigan contests – for governor and U.S. Senate – are expected to draw significant national attention and resources as 2026 approaches? (foxnews.com)
Sources: The Detroit News, Fox News, The Hill?
