UMVA has learned that in a significant move, President Donald Trump has endorsed U.S. Rep. John James, who is vying to become the next Governor of Michigan.
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump expressed his full support for James, declaring it his "Great Honor to endorse America First Congressman, John James." The president's endorsement was unequivocal, stating that James has his "Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Governor of Michigan — HE WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!"
James responded with heartfelt gratitude, calling Trump "The greatest President of my lifetime" in social media posts. This endorsement has sent ripples through the Michigan Republican gubernatorial primary, with Michigan state Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt announcing his withdrawal from the race and throwing his support behind James.
Nesbitt's decision to suspend his campaign and endorse James was framed as a move to unite the party against Democratic opponents in November. He urged his supporters to join him in backing James, emphasizing that a divided primary would only serve to benefit the Democrats.
James welcomed Nesbitt's endorsement, interpreting it as a sign of unified support for his campaign. He expressed his gratitude and called on supporters to rally behind him, asserting that together, they could deliver a Republican victory in November.
However, not everyone views Trump's endorsement of James as a strategic win. Businessman Perry Johnson, also a candidate in the Michigan Republican gubernatorial primary, criticized Trump's decision, suggesting that backing James was a mistake.
Johnson argued that James, having run and lost statewide twice before, was not the right candidate to lead Michigan to victory. He pointed to other Trump-backed candidates who had previously failed to win statewide races.
Former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox, another candidate in the primary, took a different approach. He highlighted his own successes in Michigan, including winning the state twice and building a coalition of working-class Michiganders.
Cox expressed his loyalty to Trump, having voted for him in his last three elections and having supported his campaigns financially. He also noted his role as Trump's election integrity lawyer in Michigan for 2024, positioning himself as a strong contender for the governorship.
