LANSING, MI — Anthony Hudson, a Genesee County resident and candidate for Governor of Michigan, has officially announced his departure from the Republican Party to pursue the office under the Libertarian banner. The move, announced during a Thursday interview, marks a significant shift in the state’s gubernatorial landscape as the field of non-major party candidates continues to expand.

Hudson, a professional truck driver who had been campaigning for the Republican nomination, cited deep-seated frustrations with the GOP’s internal candidate selection process as the primary driver for his exit. He alleged that party leadership frequently “hand-selects” preferred candidates, effectively stifling open competition within the primary.

“I have decided to drop from the Republican Party… and I have joined the Libertarian Party,” Hudson stated, noting that he is currently filing the necessary paperwork with the Secretary of State’s office. He expressed a desire to move toward a platform that he feels more closely aligns with his personal policies and offers a more robust challenge to the traditional two-party structure.

The announcement drew a sharp response from Republican officials. The Oakland County Republican Party issued a press release stating they were “not surprised” by the move, characterizing Hudson’s campaign as lacking a “viable path to victory” within the GOP primary.

Oakland County GOP Chairman Vance Patrick cited prior communications from Hudson as evidence of a deteriorating relationship between the candidate and the party. According to Patrick, the GOP remains focused on “promoting serious candidates” and advancing policies for Michigan families, rather than addressing what he described as Hudson’s focus on “self-promotion.”

The party switch comes on the heels of several controversies surrounding Hudson’s campaign rhetoric. Critics have pointed to Hudson’s repeated public comments regarding “treason” and the historical application of the death penalty for such offenses. In early 2026, Hudson was filmed referencing “public hanging” as a consequence for elected officials who he believes have violated their oaths.

Hudson has defended these statements, maintaining that he is not making threats but is instead “educating” the public on existing laws and their consequences.

Furthermore, the Oakland County GOP raised legal concerns regarding Hudson’s use of the title “Governor Hudson” during media appearances. Under Michigan Compiled Law (MCL 168.944), it is prohibited for a candidate to falsely represent that they currently hold an office they do not. Hudson’s team has dismissed these concerns, though the GOP suggested the behavior reflects a disregard for established rules.

Hudson now turns his attention toward the Libertarian Party convention scheduled for July. If he secures the nomination, he will join a general election field that already includes Independent candidate and former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan.