The Michigan Democratic Party formally protested a $1.8 million in-kind ad support, arguing it violates state party-to-candidate contribution limits, while James’s campaign supporters contend a June Supreme Court ruling on coordination at the federal level makes the arrangement permissible.

Polls show Benson leading within the margin of error, with the race and down-ballot contests shaped by marijuana industry fundraising influences tied to James.

Overall gubernatorial fundraising trails 2022 levels, as a larger priority on the U.S. Senate race and substantial outside spending dominate the landscape.

Benson’s major donors include Walmart heirs and tech-industry figures; James’s donors feature prominent Michigan Republicans and notable families, with Mission Michigan filing late disclosures showing James Group International contributed $625,000 to the James-backed PAC.

James acknowledged that external groups have outspent him but stressed ongoing efforts to mobilize resources under new interpretations of law, without detailing future state-party funding.

James has faced fundraising disadvantages in this race against Jocelyn Benson.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson’s office points to the state cap, highlighting potential legal contradictions if the arrangement stands.

Benson criticized the setup as giving billionaire donors outsized influence over Michigan elections.

The case reflects broader debates over donor influence in Michigan politics, with Democrats pushing for stricter money-out-of-politics measures on the November ballot.

The in-kind funding was provided on Oct. 16, just 18 days before Election Day, following a reduction in support from the Republican Governors Association.

Michigan law caps direct donations to gubernatorial candidates and bans parties from giving more than $750,000 in a cycle to a candidate, though parties can donate through other channels.

Michigan law allows up to $750,000 in party-to-candidate support; James reported $1.9 million in party support, drawing scrutiny over timing and sources.