In a competitive race for governor, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a Democrat, is set to face off against Republican U.S. Rep. John James to lead the state after eight years with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer at the helm.
The two fended off primary challenges. Benson defeated Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson while James beat Oakland County businessman Perry Johnson.
Benson, 44, of Detroit, has served as secretary of state since 2019. Her campaign promises "to make Michigan the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home." James, 45, of Shelby Township, currently represents Michigan's 10th Congressional District, which encompasses part of Macomb and Oakland counties. His campaign pledges to "Make Michigan Great Again."
While James
touts President Donald Trump's endorsement in the race and has falsely claimed that Trump won the 2020 election in Michigan, Benson boasts her record standing up to Trump's election disinformation. James has supported Trump's policy priorities, including voting for the president's tax and spending plan that cut federal funding for Medicaid and food assistance and rejecting a resolution to end the Iran War. Benson has argued that James' support for Trump's agenda has created cost-of-living challenges in Michigan.
The two have put forward different visions for Michigan's future.
James wants to eliminate Michigan's income tax, the largest source of state revenue. He wants to allow parents to opt their children out of "controversial" subjects taught in schools. He has also proposed refunding individuals and businesses fined for COVID-related violations.
Benson wants to expand free pre-K to three-year-olds. She also wants to allow local governments to establish higher minimum wages than the one set by the state. She proposes overhauling the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to help residents access services such as Medicaid and food assistance.
Republican Governors Association Chair Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte celebrated James' victory. "James is a combat veteran, job creator, and a leader who can deliver results, clean up corruption, lower costs, and bring transparency to healthcare," he said in a Tuesday, Aug. 4 statement that called Benson "not fit to lead."
Democratic Governors Association Executive Director Meghan Meehan-Draper, in turn, blasted James in a statement that didn't mention Benson. "John James is a two-time statewide loser who is out for himself, and we’re going to make him a three-time statewide loser in November," she said.
Contact Clara Hendrickson at chendrickson@freepress.com or 313-296-5743.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: These are the candidates running for Michigan governor after primary election
