Michigan GOP Governor Race Narrows as Mike Cox Exits
The race for Michigan’s Republican gubernatorial nomination sees a shift as former Attorney General Mike Cox withdraws, leaving U.S. Representative John James and businessman Perry Johnson to contend for the spot. Cox’s exit marks a significant turn in the competition where three candidates were previously neck-and-neck.
In a statement, Cox expressed his decision to back James following a pivotal endorsement by former President Donald Trump. Cox noted, “On June 22nd President Trump endorsed John James and lifted him out of a statistical tie with me. And while I did not fully appreciate it then, that endorsement placed him out of reach in a three-way Republican primary race. Several internal polls since June 22nd taught me that that lesson.”
The Trump endorsement has significantly bolstered James’ position, demonstrating what Cox describes as the “enduring loyalty of Republican primary voters in Michigan to the President.” As the primary approaches, Cox has committed to supporting James in his campaign efforts.
In response to Cox’s withdrawal, Perry Johnson issued a call to action for voters to consolidate their support behind him, asserting that 70% of voters were already opposed to James. However, Johnson did not cite a source for this figure. He praised Cox’s campaign efforts, acknowledging the strong run despite the outcome.
The Michigan Democratic Party reacted to the development by highlighting Cox’s earlier criticisms of James, suggesting his candidacy is weak and self-serving. The party’s statement underscored past tensions within the Republican primary.
While Cox has ended his campaign, his name will still appear on the primary ballot. Voters who have already cast their votes for Cox have the option to contact their local clerk’s office to request their ballots be spoiled and make an alternate choice.
Simultaneously, the Democratic primary race is underway, with Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson vying for their party’s nomination. The winner of the November election will replace outgoing Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who is term-limited.
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