James Craig Takes First Step Toward Run For Michigan Governor

DETROIT — Former Detroit Police Chief James Craig took another step toward a potential candidacy in the 2022 gubernatorial race Wednesday by launching an exploratory committee "to help me think about a run for governor for the state of Michigan."

Craig's announcement came in a video posted on his YouTube channel titled, "Leading From the Front." While Craig fell short of specifically announcing a run, the former head of Detroit police criticized Democratic Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in the video, while touting his background as a police official.

"Leading from the front. How come many politicians don't get that? None of this, 'rules for thee, but not for me,'" Craig says in the video, using a common phrase used by Michigan Republicans after Whitmer was discovered to have traveled to Florida amid the coronavirus pandemic while urging others not to travel.

"Michigan has had enough of that," Craig continues in the video.

By forming an exploratory committee, Craig can raise and spend money for campaign purposes.

Craig has been considered by many to be a promising Republican candidate in the state's gubernatorial race after Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller said in January she would not be running.

Other names making the rounds include Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel, who earlier this year said she has considered stepping down from her current position in order to challenge Whitmer in 2022, according to a report by Politico's Alex Isenstadt.

Despite his appeal, Wednesday's announcement was Craig's first official step toward a run for governor. He's made a pair of "political speeches" this month, attacking Whitmer during both.

See More: Detroit Chief Craig To Retire, Could Run For Governor: Reports

At least one Michigan Republican isn't sold on Craig, however, and has filed an official complaint claiming the former police chief has taken steps toward a potential run for governor but did so without going through the proper channels first.

Former MIGOP executive director Jeff Timmer on Monday filed a complaint with the state accusing former Detroit Police Chief James Craig of campaigning illegally by not registering a campaign with the Michigan Secretary of State's office, a violation of the Michigan Campaign Finance Act.

Timmer told The Detroit Free Press Monday that Craig exceeded a 10-day deadline candidates are given to set up their campaign beginning with when they spent or received money for their campaign.

Craig has spent money on gas, internet and consultants for campaign work, Timmer told The Detroit News, claiming that violates the act.

See More: Retiring Detroit Chief On Run For Governor: 'Not Ruling It Out'

In a statement released Tuesday, a spokesperson with the Michigan Democratic Party said Craig has been conducting "shady activity."

"Look no further than his softball gauntlet of nearly 30 national network appearances since May and dress rehearsal events across Michigan where he's delivered poll-tested lines off multiple teleprompters," MDP spokesperson Rodericka Applewhaite said. "Craig clearly enjoys being in front of cameras but is worried about the scrutiny that comes with being a candidate -- getting immediately whisked away by Lansing consultants into black SUVs and emergency exits after his speeches to dodge questions from both local reporters and voters.

"There's no doubt his political activity since May has certainly tripped the one dollar threshold, and we look forward to what the secretary of state's office uncovers as they investigate the extent of Craig's active negligence for law and order."