Former President Donald Trump’s influence on Republican primaries was evident in Michigan’s recent GOP gubernatorial nomination. Republican Rep. John James, endorsed by Trump in June, emerged victorious over multimillionaire businessman Perry Johnson, as reported by the Associated Press.
John James, a West Point graduate and former Army Ranger who served in the Iraq war, is set to compete against Democratic nominee Jocelyn Benson, Michigan’s current Secretary of State, in the general election. This race aims to decide who will succeed the term-limited Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
“Nobody outworks a ranger,”James stated. He emphasized that voters seek strong leadership beyond campaign financing.
The primary race between James and Johnson was intense. Johnson, a former gubernatorial and presidential candidate, labeled James, one of the few Black Republicans in Congress, as a “DEI candidate” and accused him of using the “race card.” James countered by calling Johnson “desperate.” Despite spending significantly more, Johnson couldn’t secure the nomination.
Initially, the GOP race included Mike Cox, a former Michigan Attorney General, and Aric Nesbitt, a state Senate Republican leader, both of whom later withdrew but remained on the ballot. Trump’s support seemingly bolstered James, showcasing Trump’s power in GOP primaries. His endorsed candidates have frequently succeeded in Republican contests in other states as well.
Yet, Trump’s winning streak faced a hitch when his backing of Rep. Randy Feenstra in Iowa wasn’t enough to secure a victory. Feenstra was defeated by Zach Lahn, supported by MAHA and Turning Point USA. Trump’s influence was visible in several other states where his supported candidates mostly triumphed.
In South Carolina’s Republican gubernatorial runoff, Trump endorsed both Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and State Attorney General Alan Wilson, ensuring a win regardless of the outcome as Wilson emerged victorious. Similarly, in Louisiana and Arizona, Trump-supported candidates won key races.
The elections demonstrate Trump’s continued clout in Republican primaries, impacting key gubernatorial and congressional races. Political observers see these results as both a test and affirmation of Trump’s sway within the party.