A major Detroit newspaper has endorsed Republican Senate candidate John James six years after endorsing his current Democratic opponent, Sen. Gary Peters.
“This is the right moment for John James,” the Detroit News editorial board wrote this week. “He is waging his campaign at a time when America is trying to work through its long history of racial animus. As an African American, a conservative, and a Republican, James would add an important perspective to policy-making aimed at vanquishing racial inequity.”
The paper added, “Michigan would gain increased influence and better representation for its people in the U.S. Senate by electing John James. “It would also send to the Senate a natural leader who could well become one of the chamber’s most powerful members.”
The editorial board also touted James’s business background and his leadership qualities developed as an Army Ranger pilot and West Point graduate.
“He helped lead his family’s successful auto supply business. As an Army Ranger pilot, he led soldiers in combat during Operation Iraqi Freedom,” the paper said. “And he promises to become a leader of the Senate while bringing to the body the unique perspective of a Black Republican.”
The paper endorsed James during his first run for the Senate in 2018 against incumbent Democrat Sen. Debbie Stabenow and endorsed Peters in 2014.
“It is an honor to have the endorsement of one of Michigan’s most prestigious and well-read publications,” James told the Washington Examiner. “Our state and nation are currently at a crossroads, and Michigan has the choice between a combat veteran or a career politician, a war fighter or a gaslighter. It’s time for Michigan to have effective leadership in the Senate where no voice will be left out.”
Peters is polling 5 points ahead of James, according to the RealClearPolitics average, but the site rates the race as a toss-up. Both campaigns have raised over $30 million.
President Trump said that James has his “total and complete endorsement” in September.
“It took a lot of guts,” Trump told James during a rally in Michigan. “John, I am with you. You have my total and complete endorsement. You have everything I can do. Everything I can do, we will do for you. And I really believe you’re going to make it.”
Trump’s opponent, former Vice President Joe Biden, also weighed in on the Michigan Senate race, calling James a “disaster” earlier this month.
James responded with a viral Twitter video saying, “Yes, @JoeBiden. I am a disaster for national Democrats’ narrative. A black man who thinks for himself.”
Yes, @JoeBiden. I am a disaster for national Democrats’ narrative. A black man who thinks for himself. #YouAintBlack ?! https://t.co/iRGxbpB7ZI pic.twitter.com/0KChHJMbFU
— John James (@JohnJamesMI) October 16, 2020
