Jocelyn Benson Enters Michigan Governor’s Race

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has officially thrown her hat into the ring for Michigan’s 2026 gubernatorial race, setting the stage for what could be a defining moment in the state’s political future. Her announcement brings a seasoned political figure into the spotlight, one with a track record of defending democracy and advocating for the rights of all Michiganders.
 
Jocelyn Benson made her intentions clear. “I am running for Governor because our state needs a bold leader who will save all Michiganders time and money, deliver real results that improve everyone’s lives, and protect our residents. And that’s what I’ve done my entire career,” she stated. Benson is positioning her campaign as one focused on efficiency, economic growth, and inclusivity. She outlined her vision for Michigan to be a place where families thrive, businesses grow, and government serves the people effectively. “This campaign is about ensuring government is on your side. I want Michigan to be the best place in the country to be a kid, raise a kid, and be healthy, safe, and successful. A place where government is efficient and easy to deal with, where businesses and communities thrive, and where every resident has access to quality child care, health care, education, and housing,” Benson said.
 
Benson’s leadership as Secretary of State gained national attention during the 2020 election, when she stood firm against widespread misinformation and challenges to Michigan’s election results. Her tenure has been marked by efforts to expand voter access and improve government services, positioning her as a candidate with both experience and resilience. She has made it clear that her fight is not just about policies but about standing up to anyone who threatens the rights and freedoms of Michigan residents. “As governor, I will bring people together to solve our biggest problems and make sure everyone has a fair shot,” Benson declared.
 
Her campaign message resonates at a critical time for Michigan Democrats, who are seeking to regain momentum after significant losses in the 2024 election. President Donald Trump’s victory in the state, coupled with Republican gains in the state House of Representatives, signaled a shift that Democrats are now grappling with. Benson’s candidacy represents an effort to reconnect with voters and push forward a progressive agenda that prioritizes working-class Michiganders over corporate interests. “I want Michigan to be a place where the economy works for everyone, not just corporations and the ultra-wealthy,” Benson emphasized.
 
Benson’s entry into the race makes her the first prominent Democrat to declare a run, though she is not without competition. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, a longtime Democrat, recently announced his intention to run as an independent, a move that Benson has publicly criticized. She called his decision an abandonment of the party rather than a constructive effort to address its challenges. Duggan’s decision presents a unique challenge, as it allows him to bypass a potentially crowded Democratic primary.
 
Potential Democratic contenders are still weighing their options. Former Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, who relocated to Traverse City after his 2020 presidential bid, has been urged by party leaders to consider a run. Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson, known for his actions during the 2020 protests following George Floyd’s death, are also seen as potential candidates.
 
On the Republican side, State Senate Majority Leader Aric Nesbitt has launched his campaign, aligning himself with Trump and promising a conservative agenda aimed at rolling back many of the policies implemented by the current administration. Nesbitt’s candidacy signals a likely return to divisive political battles that have shaped Michigan’s landscape in recent years.
 
Benson’s campaign is expected to focus heavily on her accomplishments as Secretary of State, particularly her efforts to make government more accessible and transparent. She played a key role in implementing a 2022 constitutional amendment that established early voting, a measure that expanded access to the ballot box for thousands of Michiganders. Her tenure also emphasized educating the public about the voting process, an effort she believes is critical to maintaining trust in democracy.
 
Benson’s critics, including some within her own party, argue that her focus on election security and administrative efficiency may not be enough to address the broader concerns of Michigan voters. Rising costs of living, access to quality education, and economic revitalization remain pressing issues. Benson has acknowledged these challenges and has vowed to tackle them head-on. “I want Michigan to be the best place in the country to raise a family, start a business, and build a future,” she said.
 
The race for Michigan governor is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in recent history. With Democrats looking to maintain control and Republicans eager to capitalize on recent gains, the stakes are high. Benson’s campaign will likely hinge on her ability to connect with voters across the political spectrum, offering solutions that resonate with working families while standing firm against misinformation and political division.
 
Benson’s tenure as Secretary of State provides a foundation for her gubernatorial run, but it remains to be seen whether her experience in election administration will translate into a broader appeal needed to win the governorship. As the race unfolds, Michigan voters will be closely watching how Benson and her opponents address the state’s most pressing issues, from economic development to public safety.
Benson’s candidacy marks a pivotal moment for Michigan Democrats as they navigate a challenging political landscape. Whether she can build the coalition needed to secure victory remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: her entry into the race has set the stage for a competitive and closely watched campaign.

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