"Leadership is about showing up, and John James only shows up for himself.”

Former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox. He criticized U.S. Rep. John James for skipping the first GOP primary debate in the Michigan governor’s race. The debate, organized by the state Republican Party in Sparta, was set for Oct. 29, but James announced hours before that he would not attend — a move Cox called self-serving. James’ campaign defended the decision, citing strong polling and fundraising as proof he’s the “favorite to become Michigan’s next governor.” The two-term congressman, who has previously run twice for the U.S. Senate, raised $1.38 million this quarter, more than any other Republican candidate in the race. (The Detroit News)