Former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox announced Friday he is ending his campaign for governor, saying President Donald Trump’s endorsement of U.S. Rep. John James reshaped the Republican primary race.
In a statement, Cox said internal polling following Trump’s June 22 endorsement showed James had moved beyond reach in the three-way Republican contest.
“That is the power of President Trump, and it is a testament to the enduring loyalty of Republican primary voters in Michigan to the president,” Cox said on Facebook.
Cox said his decision to leave the race came with “great sadness,” describing public service as the most rewarding part of his career despite greater financial success in the private sector.
The former attorney general reflected on his 20-month campaign, saying voters frequently asked whether politics had become too divisive.
Cox said he often responded by comparing campaigning to the challenges of running a business and making payroll, while also emphasizing the encouragement he received from supporters across the state.
He served as Michigan’s attorney general for two terms after previously working as a prosecutor.
Cox also served as a U.S. Marine.
With his campaign ending, Cox pledged to support James and other Republican candidates, including Anthony Forlini and Doug Lloyd, in the November election.
“We need them and the whole Republican team to win,” Cox said, arguing Republicans must reverse what he described as years of decline in Michigan.
Cox thanked his volunteers, donors, supporters, friends, and family for backing his campaign and gave special recognition to his wife, Laura Cox, for her support throughout the race.
His withdrawal leaves James with additional momentum in the Republican primary following Trump’s endorsement.