Michigan election: John James 'optimistic' as votes are counted

John James is speaking right now to a group of Republicans. Let's listen in. For you. My incredible running mate, Jay DeBoer, and his wife, Beth, please give them a round of applause. Their tireless effort and fearless dedication to the state of Michigan is exactly what we need leading us forward. Thank you to every volunteer who knocked on doors, who made calls, who sent the text messages, to every supporter, donor, every family who opened up their home with us, every prayer made for this campaign, and every dollar donated to keep gas in the tank. To my staff, my goodness, my staff, the best staff in the country, barely slept, I could not ask for a better team. Please give them a round of applause. And to you, each of you, here and around the state, Who sat through the endless political ads. I'm so sorry they ruined the Lions games, but you know what? They're over now, and we can all get back to our text messages without our phones melting in our laps. Listen, we don't know what tonight's going to bring. Numbers are closing, and we still have two-thirds of the vote out yet. But we are optimistic. Yes, sir. I'll tell you what, I'll tell you what. People are hungry for change. They're hungry for leadership. When I was in Iraq and a fellow warrior needed my help, I didn't ask what political party they were in. We showed up. I always have their six, and I will always have your six. That is the spirit we believe in, regardless of race, color, or creed. We have 10 million Michiganders who deserve leadership that is focused on them, not on politics. I'm incredibly proud of each and every single one of you, but for now it's late, we're still getting results in, but we'll continue to keep you posted. So for now, may the Lord bless you and keep you, may the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious unto you, the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. So for now, God bless you, God bless Michigan, and God bless the United States of America. There you have it, John James saying he's optimistic, does not know what the night will bring. Two-thirds of the vote yet to be counted, and right now it is 45, 46 percent. John James, 53 percent. Jocelyn Benson. So it is a tight race.