President Donald Trump’s influential role in Republican primaries was evident in the Michigan GOP gubernatorial race. Endorsed by Trump, Republican Rep. John James triumphed over businessman Perry Johnson. The Associated Press reported James, a two-time U.S. Senate nominee and Trump-endorsed candidate, winning the GOP primary.
James, a West Point graduate and former Army Ranger, will now compete in a high-stakes general election against Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a Democrat. Benson aims to succeed the term-limited Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
The primary race between James and Johnson, a former gubernatorial and presidential candidate, was contentious. Johnson labeled James a ‘DEI candidate’ and accused him of playing the ‘race card.’ Meanwhile, James criticized Johnson’s tactics as desperate. Despite Johnson’s significant financial investment in the campaign, James remained confident, emphasizing resilience and leadership capabilities over monetary advantages.
Initially, the nomination race included former Attorney General Mike Cox and State Senate Republican leader Aric Nesbitt, both of whom eventually suspended their campaigns. However, their names stayed on the ballot.
Trump campaigned alongside James, highlighting his endorsement’s impact. Throughout other GOP primaries, Trump’s endorsed candidates successfully challenged incumbents in Indiana, Kentucky, Texas, and Louisiana. However, his streak was briefly interrupted in Iowa when Zach Lahn bested Trump-endorsed Randy Feenstra. Lahn had support from MAHA and Turning Point USA.
In June, Trump-endorsed candidates won significant races in Georgia and Alabama, despite losing to billionaire Rick Jackson in one primary. A Trump-backed candidate, Anthony Constantino, also won in New York against Robert Smullen.
In South Carolina, Trump strategically backed both Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette and Attorney General Alan Wilson, ensuring victory regardless of the outcome. Wilson ultimately won the runoff election decisively.
In Louisiana, Trump-endorsed Rep. Julia Letlow secured the nomination after ousting Sen. Bill Cassidy, who had voted to convict Trump. Similarly, Trump-backed Andy Biggs achieved a commanding victory in Arizona’s governor primary. This pattern underscores Trump’s continued sway within the GOP.