James wavers on Oakland County GOP debate
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U.S. Rep. John James at the 2024 Republican National Convention. Photo: Eva Marie Uzcategui/Bloomberg via Getty Images
U.S. Rep. John James (R-Shelby Township) has not committed to next week's Oakland County GOP gubernatorial debate, raising questions about his strategy in a still-fluid primary.
Why it matters: The Oakland County debate is an early test for GOP candidates in one of the state's most important regions — and a chance to shape the primary as the field solidifies after Tuesday's filing deadline.
State of play: Oakland County Republican Party leaders say James' participation is "in limbo," despite prior negotiations with his campaign over debate timing and the fundraising threshold for candidates to qualify.
What they're saying: Candidates with clear leads sometimes skip debates, but this GOP primary is not settled, Oakland County GOP senior adviser Brian Szmytke tells Axios.
- "Given how open this primary still is, I think it's a very interesting choice to make at this point."
Between the lines: Skipping the debate could carry risks, says GOP consultant Jamie Roe, who is not working with any of the gubernatorial candidates.
- "I think it's a mistake. I don't understand why you don't want to appear on stage with the other candidates up for the nomination," he says, adding that James' absence will give the other candidates "free rein with no ability to defend yourself."
Zoom out: The 2026 governor's race is wide open, with no incumbent and competitive primaries on both sides.
- James and businessman Perry Johnson are the leading Republican contenders, while Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson tops the Democratic field and former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is mounting an unusual independent bid.
The intrigue: The debate's promotional flyer lists six candidates, including James, but he's the only one shown with question marks over his face.
- All other invited candidates have confirmed they will attend, Szmytke says, and a podium will be set for James either way.
The other side: The James campaign did not respond to multiple Axios requests for comment.
- "He will consider primary debates once the field is set. He looks forward to debating then," spokesperson Hannah Osantowske posted on X earlier this month.
The latest: James submitted more than 30,000 petition signatures in Lansing on Monday to qualify for the Aug. 4 primary ballot.
What's next: The April 30 debate is 7-8pm in Auburn Hills, moderated by media members including Charlie LeDuff and Kaitlyn Buss.
- Fox 2 and WWJ Newsradio 950 are broadcasting.