Karla Wagner Leaves GOP Runs Independent For Michigan Governor

Karla Wagner, known for the AxMiTax movement to eliminate property taxes, has left the Republican Party and is now running for Michigan governor as an Independent, arguing both major parties have failed taxpayers and positioning herself as an outsider challenging Lansing’s political system.

LANSING, MI – The 2026 race for Michigan governor shifted after Karla Wagner announced she is leaving the Republican Party to run as an Independent, a move that is drawing attention across the state and raising questions about whether a third-party candidate can gain traction.

Wagner, a real estate agent, licensed builder, and former volunteer sheriff’s deputy, built her campaign around eliminating property taxes through the AxMiTax initiative. She argues the current system forces residents out of their homes while failing to deliver expected public services.

“I was told my business was not essential, but my property taxes were essential,” Wagner said, referencing COVID-era policies that influenced her entry into politics. She maintains the state already collects enough revenue through sales taxes and other fees to fund services without relying on property taxes.

By leaving the GOP, Wagner is signaling she does not believe either major party will make structural changes to reduce taxes. Her campaign is focused on government reduction and redirecting existing revenue rather than increasing taxes.

Critics argue an Independent candidate cannot win statewide and could split votes. Supporters counter that her campaign is not tied to party priorities and is focused on representing voters directly. Wagner has stated she will not support candidates who do not align with her positions, saying, “If they don’t represent me, I can’t support them.”

Wagner plans to campaign across all 83 counties as she builds support ahead of the election.

Can an Independent candidate centered on eliminating property taxes win in Michigan, or will the existing political structure limit that path?