LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – As Thursday’s gubernatorial debate looms, GOP candidate Mike Cox launched a new television ad that he says documents Trump-backed Congressman John James and his company’s alleged ties to China.

Cox claims James’ billion-dollar company, James Group International, outsources work to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). In addition, Cox alleges James has a relationship with Changan Automobile, which he describes as a “Chinese military company.”

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“John James sold us out to China,” Cox said in a press release. “He even flies the Chinese flag at his warehouse. Michigan workers deserve a governor who will fight for Michigan jobs, not outsource jobs to Communist China to get rich. When I’m governor, I’ll put Michigan first.”

Michigan News Source reached out to the James campaign for comment. Press Secretary Alyvia Bailey said Tuesday’s announcement and press conference from Cox shows why he cannot be governor. “[Cox is] a failed career politician who knows nothing about Michigan’s manufacturing and auto industry or how to keep it in Michigan,” Bailey said.

Bailey added, “John James’ family business employs nearly 400 Michigan workers keeping American auto plants running. They export American goods to protect American jobs. Cox doesn’t know the difference between imports and exports.”

The Michigan Republican gubernatorial primary debate, which will feature Cox, James, and businessman Perry Johnson, is scheduled for Thursday, July 9, at 7 p.m. It will air on WOOD TV8 in Grand Rapids and CBS Detroit.

The two Democratic gubernatorial candidates, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Chris Swanson, have no debate scheduled after Benson declined to participate in a previously scheduled matchup.

Michigan’s primary election is Tuesday, Aug. 4.