MI-GOV: Michigan Republican insiders see primary race for governor as 'up for grabs'
Mackinac Island — Michigan Republicans are planning for a competitive primary campaign to take place over the next year for their party's nomination for governor, and they said it's unclear who will ultimately emerge from the crowded contest.
The GOP insiders made the comments in a series of interviews over the weekend at their Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference on Mackinac Island. The event, which occurs every other year, serves as a forum to discuss conservative policy goals and organize for upcoming elections. About 1,000 people registered to attend the three-day conference.
While some within the party see U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, as the likely front-runner for the gubernatorial nomination because he's run statewide twice in the past seven years and built a relationship with President Donald Trump, others contend the dynamics of the race are unsettled.
U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain, R-Bruce Township, who serves in the House with James, labeled the primary as "up for grabs."
https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/politics/2025/09/21/michigan-republican-governor-john-james-mike-cox-aric-nesbitt-tom-leonard-perry-johnson-kevin-rinke/86272612007/
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