Cox Drops Out, James Heads to GOP Final | Lansing News

Former AG Mike Cox has dropped out of Michigan’s GOP governor’s race, citing Trump’s endorsement of John James as the tipping point — and internal polls showing James pulling ahead. Cox’s campaign had harshly criticized James, calling him a “nepo baby” over his family’s business ties, but James stood firm in debate. With Cox’s exit, James now faces off against businessman Perry Johnson in the August 4 primary — though Cox’s name remains on the ballot due to absentee voting. Senate Leader Aric Nesbitt also backed James after Trump’s announcement, creating a surprising unity among former rivals. The winner will challenge either Jocelyn Benson or Chris Swanson — the Democratic contenders — in a pivotal race, since term-limited Governor Gretchen Whitmer can’t run again. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d68b48366915273b