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?
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