Despite expressing a commitment to safeguarding the Great Lakes, John James, a Republican and current U.S. House of Representatives member, has faced criticism for his voting record, which suggests a different stance. As he runs for governor of Michigan, his legislative actions have raised questions about his environmental priorities.
The Great Lakes are vital to Michigan, serving as a crucial source of drinking water and a hub for recreation and tourism. However, policies from the Trump administration, including relaxed environmental regulations and the potential expansion of oil drilling, have posed risks to these resources.
Contradictory Positions
James has publicly stated his opposition to diverting water from the Great Lakes and oil drilling within them. In a statement to Bridge Michigan in May, he affirmed, “I am firmly opposed to Great Lakes water diversion and oil drilling in the lakes.” This echoes his 2020 sentiment when he disagreed with a plan by then-President Donald Trump to cut federal funding for the lakes.
Nevertheless, James voted against a 2023 amendment to an energy bill that sought to ban oil and gas drilling in the Great Lakes. The International Joint Commission had previously highlighted the catastrophic potential of an oil spill in these waters, emphasizing the risk it poses to drinking water for approximately 40 million people.
Legislative Actions and Environmental Impacts
Further complicating his environmental stance, James voted to overturn a rule expanding the Clean Water Act’s protections to more wetlands and waterways. Although this reversal passed both legislative chambers, it was ultimately vetoed by President Joe Biden.
The PERMIT Act, which James supported, also poses a significant threat to the Great Lakes’ health. This legislation aims to reform the scope of the Clean Water Act, a move that environmental organizations argue could increase pollution levels. Affected areas, such as Detroit, might face heightened sanitation costs and elevated water bills, a concern for residents already struggling with water affordability.
“Water affordability is already a crisis for Detroiters,” community advocate Tiana Starks shared with Planet Detroit. “We know that there are about 60,000 households currently struggling to pay their water bills. Adding any additional cost to Detroiters could put us over the edge.”
Political Contests and Future Implications
James also missed a March 2026 vote on extending federal funding for Great Lakes restoration projects. His opponent in the gubernatorial race, Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, prioritizes Great Lakes protection in her campaign, underscoring its importance for the region’s health and safety.
“Fifteen million people in the Great Lakes region get their drinking water from the Great Lakes,” her campaign website notes. “And in this era of rapid climate change, protecting our water, air, and natural resources preserves what makes Michigan special and ensures it is a safe, healthy home for all of us.”
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