Michigan Republicans rally behind ticket after divisive gubernatorial primary

Republicans gathered in Macomb County Wednesday for a Unity Luncheon, stirring up support heading into the general election cycle the morning after the primary election, which included a contentious GOP gubernatorial contest.

“To those who supported me, thank you. Those who didn’t, I’m going to continue to work to earn your trust each and every single day,” said U.S. Rep. John James (R-Shelby Twp.), who won that competitive gubernatorial primary. “Today marks Michigan’s comeback.”

U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Bruce Township), the conference chair of the Republican Party, said to the crowd, “I’m here to tell you, we are here to put Michigan back on the map, and that’s exactly what we intend to do with some of our candidates today in Congress.”

The event was hosted by U.S. Senate candidate Mike Rogers, who was unopposed in his primary, and included speeches by James, as well as Attorney General and Secretary of State nominees Doug Lloyd and Anthony Forlini. Also speaking were congressional nominees Terri DeBoer, Ethan Baker and Michael Bouchard, nominees in the 3rd, 11th and 10th Districts, respectively, as well as Thomas Smith, who won the 8th District despite suspending his campaign in mid-July.

“Love of country is why we win. It’s because we know that our country is at a crossroads,” Bouchard said. “We stand for American ideals, and in November we will deliver real solutions for our country.”

Others in the crowd included Republican state legislators Sen. Ruth Johnson (R-Holly) and Rep. Donni Steele (R-Orion Township), as well as Oakland County GOP Chair Vance Patrick, who was an ardent supporter of Perry Johnson in his failed gubernatorial primary bid.