FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 26, 2026
Contact: Hannah Osantowske
press@johnjamesmi.com
Police Officers Association of Michigan Endorses John James for Governor
Largest frontline law enforcement organization of over 12,000 members in Michigan backs combat veteran in race to restore law and order
Shelby Township, MI — The Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM), representing tens of thousands of law enforcement professionals across the state, today formally endorsed John James for Governor of Michigan, citing his proven record of supporting law enforcement, defending public safety, and standing up for the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect Michigan communities.
“For too long radical voices pushing ‘defund the police’ policies have made it harder for officers to do their jobs and easier for criminals to threaten our communities. As a combat veteran and proven conservative leader, John James will stand with law enforcement, restore law and order, and ensure officers have the support, respect, and resources they need to protect Michigan families. POAM proudly endorses John James for Governor,”
— James Tignanelli, President of the Police Officers Association of Michigan
POAM and John James have built a long-standing partnership rooted in a shared commitment to law enforcement, safe communities, and support for the officers who serve on the front lines every day. After backing James in his previous U.S. Senate campaigns, POAM is now supporting his 2026 campaign for Governor as Michigan voters increasingly demand stronger leadership on crime, public safety, and respect for law enforcement.
“The men and women who wear the badge carry an extraordinary burden on behalf of every Michigan family, and they’ve been abandoned by politicians who chose ideology over public safety,” said John James. “That ends when I’m Governor. My administration will ensure every officer in this state has the training, equipment, legal protections, and respect their service and sacrifice deserves.”
The association also endorsed President Donald J. Trump, underscoring a shared commitment to restoring law and order and standing unapologetically with police officers across America.
Throughout his time in Congress, James has consistently championed the priorities that matter most to Michigan law enforcement officers, retirees, and their families. James helped deliver one of POAM’s top legislative priorities by supporting No Tax on Overtime, allowing officers who work long hours protecting Michigan communities to keep more of what they earn.
“We will restore order to our streets, accountability to our justice system, and pride to the profession of policing,” James continued. “Michigan’s law enforcement officers deserve a Governor who backs them up, and they will have one in me.”
James also supported passage of the Social Security Fairness Act (H.R. 82), landmark legislation repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset, which unfairly reduced retirement benefits for countless retired officers and public servants.
POAM’s endorsement adds to the growing coalition of law enforcement leaders, veterans, first responders, and public safety advocates rallying behind John James’ campaign to restore strength, safety, and common sense leadership to Michigan.
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