DETROIT — Retiring Detroit Police Chief James Craig has not declared himself a candidate, but Republican Party insiders say his “law and order” bona fides would make him a formidable challenger against Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer next year.
Since 2013, Craig has presided over one of the most violent and liberal cities in the country — one hit hard by COVID-19, which he contracted last year as his department enforced Whitmer orders.
Although he has no elected experience, Craig could enter the race as the presumed frontrunner among Republicans, including activists who believe COVID regulations were too strict, crime rates are too high and the 2020 election was rigged.