Rep. John James, Republican of Michigan and the Republican nominee for governor, defended the administration’s efforts to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons while supporting diplomatic and economic measures to keep Americans out of war. He said the conflict had reached six months, despite an initial estimate of four to six weeks, and addressed polling showing that 61% of Americans disapprove of it. James also urged U.S. and Canadian negotiators to reach a reciprocal trade agreement, warning that tariffs must not harm Michigan workers. Canada’s prime minister has said the country will match U.S. tariffs dollar for dollar starting September 8, while President Trump has said a 50% tariff on Canadian cars, trucks, auto parts and steel would begin January 1. James said Michigan had lost more than 300,000 manufacturing jobs since the 1990s and that he would seek cooperation with both governments if elected. On data centers, he said local control and a moratorium until protections are established were compatible positions. He called for safeguards against higher electricity bills, water use and pollution, prioritizing blighted and brownfield sites over productive farmland, and repealing Public Act 233 and Public Act 235.