John James wins GOP primary, seeks to become Michigan’s first Black governor

The GOP nominee now faces Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson in the November general election.

John James has won Michigan’s Republican primary for governor, advancing to a November contest against Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. James’ primary win follows a campaign shaped by his rocky GOP reception and broader questions about Black Republican candidates seeking statewide office.

CBS Detroit reported that the two-term congressman defeated businessman Perry Johnson in Tuesday’s primary. CBS projected the race with James leading 155,109 votes to Johnson’s 111,942 in an unofficial count taken shortly before 11 p.m. The totals were not yet certified.

James entered the race in April 2025 after two unsuccessful U.S. Senate campaigns. The Army veteran won Michigan’s 10th Congressional District in 2022 and was reelected in 2024. His gubernatorial campaign received President Donald Trump’s endorsement, which was followed by former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox leaving the race and state Sen. Aric Nesbitt suspending his campaign.

Johnson remained James’ principal opponent and spent nearly $30 million on the campaign, much of it from his own money. He promoted eliminating Michigan’s state income tax and attacked James in an advertising-heavy final stretch.

The GOP primary victory gives James another opportunity to win statewide office after losing Senate races to Debbie Stabenow in 2018 and Gary Peters in 2020. His departure from Congress also creates an open race in Michigan’s 10th District, where Republican Michael Bouchard and Democrat Christina Hines won their respective primaries.

Benson defeated Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson for the Democratic nomination. She has served as Michigan’s secretary of state since 2019 and will seek to keep the governor’s office under Democratic control after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer completes her second term.

James has emphasized national security, energy independence, support for law enforcement and protection of Michigan’s land, water and air. Benson has campaigned on affordability, voting rights and increased government accountability.

James’ primary win also places a potential historic first on the November ballot. Michigan has never elected a Black governor, and James would become the first if he defeats Benson.