(WWJ) -- Former Detroit police chief James Craig is officially running for governor of Michigan.
During an appearance Wednesday night on the Fox News show “Tucker Carlson Tonight,” Craig announced that he’s making a bid to unseat Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
"I've got to tell you, I am running," Craig said.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Republican candidate announced that he had launched an exploratory committee to begin raising funds for his campaign.
In a video released to the website chiefjamescraig.com, the ex-cop says he plans to revitalize Michigan by “leading from the front” -- a mantra that has become his campaign slogan.
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While speaking with Carlson, Craig pointed out that “Detroit didn’t burn” during the unrest that took place following the death of George Floyd last summer.
Craig was also critical of Gov. Whitmer, saying, "When I look at what some politicians are doing across our country, you know, let's talk about Governor Whitmer, she follows different rules. She just does."
Following the announcement, The Michigan Democratic Party released a statement reacting to news of Craig’s gubernatorial run:
"Tonight, James Craig made his 28th national network appearance only to bring absolutely nothing new to the table in his ‘exclusive’ with Tucker Carlson. In sidestepping local reporters and Michigan voters alike, Craig once again showed that he’s nothing but a typical politician that will go through whatever lengths necessary to avoid establishing where he stands on every key issue imaginable, whether it be healthcare, public education, roads, or maintaining the momentum of our recovering economy.
"Our working families deserve a leader that is going to put them first, which is exactly what Governor Whitmer has shown with the major investments she’s recently made into all of these sectors -- all without raising taxes."
For their part, Craig’s campaign says they are planning a number of events and rallies that will likely occur after Labor Day.
Craig stepped down from the Detroit Police Department at the end of last month after eight years as chief, concluding a four decade-long career in law enforcement.
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