by
U.S. Rep. John James
Detroit News Editorial Page Editor Nolan Finley is starting to wonder just how sincere GOP Congressman John James is about running for governor.
In a column, Finley writes:
"James has been a selective campaigner, avoiding appearances that would put him together with the other GOP candidates in the race. He hasn't done party-sponsored forums or debates. His preference is for controlled events, with limited exposure to the media, where he's not likely to face an unfriendly audience. He made only a brief appearance at last weekend's Republican state party convention, where he was met with scattered boos."
"As a sitting congressman, he could offer the excuse that he's been busy in Washington working for the people of his Oakland-Macomb district. But the Detroit News reported James leads the Michigan delegation in missed House votes this session. He couldn't have given his opponents a bigger hammer to hit him with, or one that plays better into the criticism that James lacks commitment."
Finley mentions that Republican Perry Johnson is mounting an aggressive campaign for governor.
Finley notes that James campaign says James recently completed a statewide swing that featured 118 stops and has been active on social media.
Still, Finley concludes:
"He must be far more aggressive and energetic. He's got to show up and show voters he really does want to be governor."
