State Rep. Laura Cox is running to lead the Michigan Republican Party.
Cox announced her bid Monday, saying the 2020 presidential election is "right around the corner" and the GOP must start working to win Michigan again for Donald Trump. Chairman Ron Weiser isn't expected to seek another two-year term when activists vote at a convention in February.
Cox, who lost her race for state Senate, says she's a "tough conservative leader who fights hard for our principles." She's married to former state Attorney General Mike Cox.
Also eyeing a run for party chair is state House Speaker Tom Leonard, who lost his race for attorney general. He said Sunday he'll make a decision shortly.
Republicans lost top races, including the governorship and two congressional seats, to Democrats last week.