Cox Campaign: Back-to-Back Debate Wins as Mike Cox Dominates Upper Peninsula Straw Poll

“From Oakland County to the Upper Peninsula, Republican voters are rallying behind a candidate who shows up and knows how to win.”

GLADSTONE, MI — Following a commanding performance at the Oakland County GOP debate, gubernatorial candidate Mike Cox delivered another decisive victory last night at the First Congressional District Republican Gubernatorial Debate in Gladstone, sweeping a post-debate straw poll and cementing his momentum across the state.

The debate, held in Delta County in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, showcased Cox’s continued strength with grassroots Republican voters, culminating in a dominant straw poll win:

• Cox — 42

• Rebandt — 37

• Nesbitt — 23

• Johnson — 21

• James — 2

The result marks a stunning rejection of John James, who once again failed to show up for Republican voters. 

“Republicans across Michigan are sending a clear message: they want a fighter who shows up and delivers,” said Cox. “We’re building momentum in every corner of this state because Republicans know I’ll never back down from the tough fights.”

During the debate, Cox laid out a clear, law-and-order vision for Michigan, emphasizing the need for stronger coordination with federal immigration authorities.

“We’re going to require state and local agencies to work with federal law enforcement like ICE to deport criminal illegal immigrants.” 

Cox also drew on Michigan’s proud economic legacy, calling for bold leadership to restore the state’s competitive edge.

“Other candidates talk about big ideas, but I’m the only one with a track record of actually winning and getting things done.” Cox said. “We can lead again, but only if we have the courage to cut taxes, grow jobs, and get government out of the way.”

After two straight debate victories, Cox’s campaign says the contrast in the race is becoming unmistakable: a proven conservative leader with a record of results versus opponents who either fail to show up or fail to deliver.

“We’re just getting started. And we’re going to take this momentum all the way to August.”