What could be next for James Craig
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Illustration: Rebecca Zisser/Axios
James Craig's future is suddenly in doubt after his latest effort to get on the August primary ballot failed last week.
Why it matters: Craig's prospects are plentiful thanks to a unique career in law enforcement, leadership and even entertainment.
Yes, but: He hasn't given up on his gubernatorial campaign yet. A spokesperson tells Axios it is "a little premature to discuss the next steps as we are still sorting through what's currently in front of us."
The intrigue: Despite a calamitous run for governor, Craig remains a fascinating candidate as a Black Republican with an extensive law enforcement background and strong local name recognition.
- Axios talked to political insiders about Craig's potential options. Here are some possibilities:
Lower office: Jonathan Kinloch, chair of the 13th Congressional District Democratic Party, says Craig was in line to be Detroit's next mayor before running as a Republican for governor. Many in the city previously thought he was a Democrat.
- "I don't see any pathways for him to garner an elected position in Detroit or Wayne County," says Kinloch, who is also a Wayne County commissioner.
- "Even if Mayor [Mike] Duggan eventually steps aside, Craig's once-possible political career in Detroit is over, but he could likely win a Republican legislative seat should he decide to move," says John Sellek, CEO of Lansing-based PR firm Harbor Strategic.
Media personality: "He's got a pension. He can do whatever he wants," says political strategist Andrea Bitely I'm betting Craig writes a book about his journey in law enforcement and moves to Florida. A book, even if it's bad, will keep him on Fox News."
Law enforcement consultant: While working in Los Angeles, Craig was mentored by William Bratton, the former LAPD chief who parlayed his law enforcement experience into a career as a private consultant.
- Consultancy could be a natural home for Craig — his public safety resume isn't spotless and his run for governor could complicate any immediate interest in being a big city police chief again.
Acting coach: If politics or policing don't work out, Craig could get back into entertainment. His nickname is "Hollywood Craig" for a reason.
- Actor Denzel Washington credited a 1990s ridealong with Craig for preparing him for police roles in "Ricochet" and "The Little Things."
- "When he is playing the LAPD cop, there are things he says he got directly from me," Craig told Fox 2 Detroit last year. "It's almost like he was playing me."