Cox Campaign Accuses John James of Deceptive Fundraising Texts in Michigan Governor’s Race

 

LANSING, Mich. — A new political flashpoint has erupted in Michigan’s already heated gubernatorial race, as the campaign of former Attorney General Mike Cox is accusing Republican rival John James of misleading voters through a controversial fundraising text message.

The dispute centers on a mass text sent to Michigan voters claiming to support efforts to “hold Michigan for Trump,” while promoting a so-called “10X impact” on donations. The message suggested that small contributions would be multiplied — for example, a $10 donation becoming $100 — and directed recipients to a fundraising link.

Cox’s campaign alleges that the message is deceptive, arguing that there is no actual donation-matching program in place and that funds raised through the link are directed solely to James’ campaign — not to any broader effort tied to former President Donald Trump or national party operations.

“This is not just misleading — it’s a bait-and-switch,” Cox allies said in statements posted online. “Voters are being led to believe their money is going toward a coordinated effort tied to President Trump, when in reality it appears to benefit only one campaign.”

Dispute Over “10X Impact” Claims

At the center of the controversy is the use of “matching” language — a common but tightly scrutinized tactic in political fundraising. According to guidance previously circulated by Trump-aligned fundraising committees and the Republican National Committee, campaigns are discouraged from using language that implies donations will be multiplied unless such programs are clearly defined and legitimate.

Cox’s campaign points to those guidelines, arguing that the “10X impact” messaging violates both the spirit and, potentially, the rules governing political fundraising solicitations tied to Trump’s name and likeness.

Screenshots shared by Cox’s team also show that the donation page linked in the text appears to route contributions directly to John James’ campaign, with no visible indication of a matching fund or broader allocation.

No Public Confirmation From Trump

Another key point of contention is the absence of any public endorsement or authorization from Trump or his affiliated committees for the fundraising effort described in the text.

Cox’s campaign argues that invoking Trump in the solicitation — without clear authorization or financial participation — creates a false impression of coordination.

“There has been no notice, no confirmation, and no evidence that President Trump or his team is involved in this,” Cox supporters claim. “That makes the message even more problematic.”

James Campaign Yet to Respond

As of now, the James campaign has not issued a detailed public response to the allegations. It remains unclear whether the campaign will dispute the claims, clarify the “10X impact” language, or defend the fundraising approach as standard political marketing.

Political analysts note that aggressive digital fundraising tactics — including urgent language, countdown timers, and matching claims — have become increasingly common across both parties. However, they also warn that such tactics can blur ethical lines if not clearly explained to donors.

Broader Implications in Tight Race

The controversy comes at a critical moment in the Michigan governor’s race, where fundraising and grassroots support are key indicators of campaign strength. Accusations of deceptive practices could carry political risk, particularly among core Republican voters who prioritize transparency and alignment with Trump.

Cox’s campaign is leaning into the issue, framing it as a matter of trust.

“If you received this text, you should know exactly where your money is going,” a campaign-aligned message stated. “Voters deserve honesty — not gimmicks.”

Whether the dispute gains traction with voters — or fades as another flashpoint in a contentious primary — may depend on how quickly and clearly the James campaign responds.

Michigan Gubernatorial Candidates Clash Over Data Centers as Absences Take Center Stage

 

LANSING, Mich. — What was intended to be a policy-focused forum on data centers quickly turned into a broader referendum on candidate accountability, as several high-profile contenders — most notably John James — skipped a key event hosted by the Michigan Press Association.

While multiple Republican candidates and one Democrat appeared to outline detailed positions on the future of data centers in Michigan, the absence of top-tier names left a noticeable void — and drew pointed criticism from both attendees and political observers.

Republicans Outline Competing Visions

Former Attorney General Mike Cox stressed local control, arguing communities should decide whether to allow data centers but only if developers meet strict requirements, including generating their own energy to avoid burdening residents and businesses.

Businessman Perry Johnson emerged as one of the most policy-focused voices, framing the issue around Michigan’s economic future. He warned that rising energy costs are already “unbearable” and proposed limiting rate increases to inflation while requiring developers to invest in infrastructure.

Johnson also raised concerns about transparency involving Democratic frontrunner Jocelyn Benson, drawing attention to potential conflicts tied to a proposed data center project connected to her husband’s business dealings.

Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt took a hard line against taxpayer subsidies, arguing Michigan should stop handing out incentives to large tech companies and instead prioritize infrastructure and tax relief.

Swanson, Rebandt Offer Contrasting Views

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson, the lone Democrat present, criticized the rollout of data center projects, arguing residents have been excluded from decision-making and calling for a structured, transparent zoning approach.

Pastor Ralph Rebandt opposed data centers outright, citing environmental risks and a history of failed corporate subsidy deals.

John James Absence Draws Sharper Criticism

But the most pointed criticism of the day centered on who wasn’t in the room.

John James — long viewed as a Republican frontrunner — did not attend, citing obligations in Washington. However, his absence is increasingly being framed by critics as part of a broader pattern rather than a one-off scheduling conflict.

Opponents argue James has been largely missing in action during key moments of the gubernatorial race, avoiding direct engagement in forums and debates where voters expect candidates to defend their positions.

That criticism is compounded by scrutiny over his record in Congress, where detractors point to missed votes and limited visibility during critical legislative periods. For a candidate seeking to lead the state, critics argue, the perception of inconsistency — both in Lansing and Washington — raises legitimate questions about accessibility and accountability.

In a race where many voters remain undecided, the contrast was difficult to ignore: candidates on stage answering questions in real time, while one of the most recognizable names in the field was absent from the discussion entirely.

Supporters of James maintain that his congressional duties require his attention and note his past electoral strength. But politically, the optics of skipping a major statewide forum — particularly on a defining issue like data centers — handed his opponents an opportunity to question whether he is willing to show up when it matters most.

Other Key Absences

James was not alone. Benson and independent candidate Mike Duggan also did not attend, further fueling criticism that some of the race’s biggest names are avoiding unscripted, policy-driven settings.

Race Remains Wide Open

The forum came amid shifting dynamics in the race, including the withdrawal of former House Speaker Tom Leonard and tightening polling in the Republican primary, where Johnson has been gaining momentum.

With Michigan’s governorship historically alternating between parties and a three-way general election likely, the stakes are high — and so is voter scrutiny.

More Than Policy — A Test of Presence

While data centers remain a critical policy issue — touching on energy, infrastructure, and economic development — Thursday’s forum underscored something equally important to voters: who is willing to show up, take questions, and be held accountable.

For candidates who attended, it was an opportunity to lead the conversation. For those who didn’t, especially James, it may raise a more fundamental question that could follow them through the campaign:

If you’re not in the room now, will you be there when it counts?

Michigan Demands Answers After Antrim County Clerk Accused of Improperly Altering Voter Records

 

ANTRIM COUNTY, Mich. — State election officials are investigating whether the Antrim County clerk improperly canceled or altered voter registrations, raising new concerns about election administration in a county that has remained under intense scrutiny since the 2020 presidential election.

According to the Michigan Bureau of Elections, Clerk Victoria Bishop may have taken actions that exceeded her legal authority by issuing voter cancellation notices and modifying records in the state’s Qualified Voter File, commonly known as the QVF.

In a formal letter sent earlier this month, Bureau Director Jonathan Brater stated that the agency had received reports from voters and local officials about “concerning activity” tied to Bishop’s office. A subsequent review of the QVF revealed what officials described as “sufficient irregularities” to warrant further investigation.

Allegations of Improper Cancellations

At the center of the dispute is whether Bishop improperly targeted voters who had not participated in recent elections. State officials say evidence suggests cancellation or confirmation notices were sent to individuals who missed one or two major election cycles.

Under Michigan law, however, voter registrations cannot be canceled solely for failing to vote.

The Bureau also alleges that Bishop may have:

• Changed voter statuses in the QVF to “Cancel” or “Reject” without proper authorization

• Failed to independently verify voter information before taking action

• Acted without delegation from city or township clerks, who are legally responsible for maintaining voter rolls

State officials emphasized that county clerks do not have unilateral authority to conduct voter maintenance or directly alter registration statuses in the statewide system.

Bishop Defends “Corrective Audit”

Bishop, a Republican elected in 2024, has defended her actions, describing them as part of a “corrective audit” aimed at improving the accuracy of voter rolls.

She argues that sending notices to voters was intended to prompt verification and ensure outdated registrations—such as those belonging to deceased individuals or people who have moved—are addressed. Bishop has also said that maintaining accurate voter rolls is essential to restoring public confidence in elections.

In public statements, she has framed her actions as a response to what she describes as past administrative failures, particularly during the 2020 election cycle.

Bishop is married to Randy Bishop, a conservative talk radio personality often known as “Trucker Randy,” who has publicly promoted claims that the 2020 election was stolen.

Potential Legal Consequences

The Bureau of Elections has ordered Bishop to provide a detailed explanation of her actions, including a list of affected voters and justification for any changes made in the QVF.

Failure to comply could carry serious consequences. State officials noted that:

• Election duties could be reassigned or removed

• Violations of lawful directives may result in misdemeanor charges

Michigan has previously taken similar action against local clerks accused of violating election law, including temporarily stripping authority in high-profile cases.

Antrim County’s Ongoing Election Spotlight

This latest controversy unfolds in Antrim County, a northern Michigan community that became nationally known following the 2020 election. At that time, a reporting error briefly showed incorrect presidential results due to a tabulator update issue, which was later corrected.

Despite the correction, the incident fueled widespread claims of election fraud and placed the county at the center of ongoing political and legal debates about election integrity.

Bishop campaigned on addressing those concerns, pledging to clean up voter rolls and strengthen confidence in the system. Her election reflected continued skepticism among some voters about the accuracy of election administration.

What Comes Next

The Bureau’s investigation is ongoing, and Bishop faces a deadline to respond with documentation and explanations of her actions. The outcome could determine whether the issue remains an administrative dispute or escalates into formal legal proceedings.

As Michigan prepares for upcoming elections, the case underscores the tension between efforts to ensure voter roll accuracy and the legal safeguards designed to protect voter access.

Tom Leonard Ends Michigan Gubernatorial Bid, Citing Principles and Path Forward

 

Former state House Speaker Tom Leonard announced Thursday that he is withdrawing from the race for governor, saying the decision came after months of reflection on the direction of the campaign and the standards he was unwilling to compromise.

In a statement, Leonard said his campaign had spent the past 10 months traveling across Michigan, meeting voters, and promoting what he described as “bold, positive leadership focused on real solutions.” He credited family members, staff, and supporters for sustaining the effort, expressing gratitude for their time, energy, and encouragement.

“This wasn’t an easy decision,” Leonard said, adding that the move followed “an honest look at the path forward” as the race evolved.

Leonard emphasized that continuing in the contest would have required changes to his campaign approach and personal values, which he said he was unwilling to make. “I’m not willing to compromise who I am or how I believe this campaign should be run in order to win,” he said.

The withdrawal comes as the gubernatorial race in Michigan continues to take shape ahead of the November election, with candidates across both major parties working to consolidate support and define their platforms. Political observers note that departures at this stage can shift the dynamics of a competitive primary field.

Despite ending his bid, Leonard indicated he plans to remain active in public policy and advocacy. “While this chapter is closing, we are not going anywhere when it comes to fighting for the issues that matter,” he said.

Leonard also called for unity moving forward, urging voters and leaders to focus on shared priorities as the election approaches.

No immediate endorsement of another candidate was announced.

Michigan Democrats Nominate Eli Savit for Attorney General Amid Party Tensions

 

Eli Savit Facebook 

DETROIT MICHIGAN — Michigan Democrats on Sunday selected Eli Savit as their nominee for attorney general, choosing the Washtenaw County prosecutor over Karen McDonald at a contentious party convention in Detroit that also reflected broader political tensions within the party.

Savit’s nomination comes at a time when Democrats in Michigan and nationally have faced criticism and accusations from some opponents and commentators over alleged tolerance of antisemitic rhetoric tied to protests and divisions over U.S. policy in the Middle East. His selection, however, also underscores the complexity of those claims, as Savit himself is Jewish and has been an active figure within Democratic legal and political circles.

The endorsement was decided at the Michigan Democratic Party convention at Huntington Place, where more than 7,200 delegates gathered to vote on candidates for statewide offices ahead of the November election.

Savit will now face Republican nominee Doug Lloyd, setting up a general election contest between two longtime prosecutors with sharply different views on the role of the attorney general’s office.

“We’re on the front line right now,” Savit told delegates following his nomination. “We’re facing challenges from Washington, D.C. We’re facing challenges from the corrupting influence of money in our politics. But what you see reflected on this stage is a hopeful vision for the future.”

Lloyd criticized Savit shortly after the nomination was announced, arguing that his policies reflect a politically driven approach to prosecution.

“Michigan deserves something different,” Lloyd said. “A legal system grounded in fairness, consistency, and respect for the rule of law.”

Savit’s supporters pointed to his record as Washtenaw County prosecutor, including his stances on criminal justice reform and environmental issues. Some delegates also emphasized his independence from corporate and utility-backed funding as a key reason for their support.

The convention itself highlighted ongoing divisions within the Democratic Party, particularly around issues related to campus protests, foreign policy, and internal messaging. Critics have used those divisions to accuse Democrats of failing to adequately address antisemitism in certain activist spaces, while party leaders and many members have rejected those claims and pointed to the diversity within their ranks.

Savit’s nomination places him at the center of that broader political debate as the campaign moves into the general election phase.

In other action, Democrats also nominated Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II as their candidate for secretary of state, as the party looks to present a unified ticket in November.

Chaos and Division Mark Michigan Democratic Convention as Key Endorsements Emerge

 

DETROIT  What was intended to showcase party unity ahead of a critical election year instead exposed deep divisions within the Michigan Democratic Party, as thousands of delegates gathered in Detroit for a chaotic and at times contentious endorsement convention.

More than 7,200 delegates packed the Huntington Place convention center Sunday, a record turnout that underscored both high engagement and rising tensions within the party. By the end of a turbulent day marked by delays, boos, and internal clashes, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II secured the party’s nomination for secretary of state, while Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit won the endorsement for attorney general.

Both candidates are now expected to appear on the November ballot as the party’s official nominees.

Disruptions and Delays

The convention was plagued by logistical issues from the start. Credentialing errors delayed voting for hours, sparking frustration among delegates who shouted from the convention floor and demanded the process move forward.

Voting, originally scheduled for earlier in the day, did not begin until late afternoon. Some delegates were unable to cast ballots electronically, forcing long lines and further aggravating an already tense atmosphere.

Party Chair Curtis Hertel Jr. attempted to reassure attendees, promising that all properly registered delegates would be allowed to vote. Still, the delays contributed to a sense of disorganization that critics quickly seized upon.

Boos Signal Party Divisions

Tensions were not limited to logistics. Political divisions within the party surfaced repeatedly, most visibly during speeches.

U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens was met with sustained boos during her Senate campaign remarks, highlighting a growing divide between establishment Democrats and progressive activists. Stevens attempted to calm the crowd, telling delegates, “Democrats, I love you, even when we disagree,” but the reaction underscored the challenges ahead in unifying the party.

Progressive favorite Abdul El-Sayed drew strong support from activists, with chants of his name echoing through the hall. His calls for sweeping reforms, including Medicare for All and the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, reflected the energy of the party’s left flank.

High-Stakes Endorsements

Despite the turmoil, the convention produced decisive outcomes in key races.

Gilchrist, who has served alongside Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for nearly two terms, secured the secretary of state endorsement after abandoning a gubernatorial bid earlier this year. Though he lacks direct experience overseeing elections, supporters argued he would defend voting rights and modernize state systems.

Savit’s victory over Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald came despite strong backing for McDonald from major labor unions. Savit, known for progressive reforms such as eliminating cash bail in certain cases, is expected to face scrutiny from conservatives in the general election.

Contentious Regent Race

One of the most divisive contests involved the University of Michigan Board of Regents. Civil rights attorney Amir Makled defeated incumbent Jordan Acker in a race shaped heavily by controversy over the university’s handling of pro-Palestinian protests.

The contest became a flashpoint for broader ideological battles within the party, with activists criticizing Acker while Makled faced scrutiny over past social media activity. The outcome reflected the growing influence of activist-driven issues in party politics.

A Party at a Crossroads

The convention also served as a platform for national figures, including Kamala Harris, Cory Booker, and Andy Beshear, all of whom addressed delegates ahead of potential future campaigns.

Whitmer, speaking to the crowd, acknowledged challenges at the national level and urged Democrats to remain focused on upcoming elections.

Still, the events of the weekend highlighted a party grappling with internal disagreements over policy, messaging, and leadership direction.

Looking Ahead

By the convention’s close, party leaders emphasized unity, with Gilchrist declaring, “Our unity is our strength.” But the visible fractures—ranging from ideological disputes to organizational missteps—suggest that achieving that unity may prove difficult.

With high-stakes races looming in November, the Michigan Democratic Party now faces the challenge of consolidating its base while navigating the divisions laid bare in Detroit.

Divisions deepen among Democrats in Michigan’s pivotal Senate race

 

 A closely watched U.S. Senate race in Michigan is exposing deep divisions within the Democratic Party as candidates debate ideology, electability and key policy issues ahead of the August primary.

Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive candidate aligned with the policies of Bernie Sanders, is pushing back against concerns from party leaders who fear his nomination could jeopardize Democrats’ chances in November. El-Sayed argues that bold positions — not moderation — win elections, pointing to the victories of Donald Trump as evidence.

The open Senate seat is considered critical to control of the chamber. Republicans are rallying behind former Rep. Mike Rogers, with outside groups planning major spending in the state.

Within the Democratic primary, El-Sayed faces Rep. Haley Stevens and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow. Stevens is viewed by party insiders as the most electable, while McMorrow is positioning herself as a bridge between moderates and progressives.

The race has highlighted sharp disagreements on policy. El-Sayed supports abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and backs Medicare for All, while his opponents favor more incremental reforms. Campaign financing has also become a flashpoint, with El-Sayed rejecting AIPAC and corporate PAC money and criticizing his rivals for accepting it.

Tensions have escalated as candidates question each other’s consistency and leadership. El-Sayed has accused party leaders of lacking “courage,” while McMorrow has countered that his campaign relies more on rhetoric than practical solutions.

Foreign policy — particularly the Israel-Hamas conflict — has emerged as one of the most divisive issues. El-Sayed has been sharply critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza and U.S. support for the country. Stevens has rejected claims that Israel’s actions constitute genocide, while McMorrow has expressed concern over potential war crimes and called for a resolution to the conflict.

The candidates have also clashed over campaign tactics. Stevens and McMorrow criticized El-Sayed for appearing with political commentator Hasan Piker, citing past controversial remarks. El-Sayed defended the appearances as part of engaging with diverse viewpoints.

The primary reflects a broader debate within the Democratic Party: whether to nominate a candidate who energizes the progressive base or one seen as more competitive with swing voters in a battleground state.

Some voters remain divided. While younger and more progressive voters are drawn to El-Sayed’s platform, others worry his positions could alienate moderates in a general election.

With control of the Senate potentially at stake, the outcome in Michigan could have national implications.