LANSING, Mich. — Michigan’s Democratic Secretary of State, Jocelyn Benson, made her intention to run for governor known on Wednesday, aiming to succeed Gretchen Whitmer in the 2026 election. This announcement comes at a crucial time for the Democratic Party, which is seeking to regain its footing after facing significant setbacks in the pivotal state during the recent elections in November.
Benson has gained substantial recognition as the state’s chief elections official during critical electoral processes, including the 2020 and 2024 elections. She is the first prominent Democratic candidate to enter the race, seeking to connect with voters who may feel disenchanted with the party, particularly after President Donald Trump’s recent victories in the state. “We’ll work to continue delivering and not just listening,” Benson stated in an interview, emphasizing the importance of discussing economic issues and strategies to help alleviate financial burdens on residents.
Governor Whitmer, who is term-limited, has chosen not to endorse a candidate for her successor. Benson’s previous statewide victories in 2018 and 2022 mirror Whitmer’s success, which sets the stage for a competitive race ahead. Recognized nationally for her steadfast defense of the 2020 election results—despite numerous challenges from Trump and his supporters—Benson’s reputation has gained momentum. In a pre-release campaign video, she addressed the hostility she faced, highlighting protests outside her home instigated by misinformation surrounding the election.
Benson was part of a significant wave of Democratic victories in 2022, which saw her re-elected and the party gain control of both chambers of the legislature, the governor’s office, and the attorney general’s office. Notably, her reelection coincided with an increase in the representation of women within state leadership roles. “To elevate women’s voices, and really all voices, that aren’t being heard or aren’t at the center of decision-making circles in this moment is really important for me,” Benson remarked, noting that her campaign is led entirely by women.
The Democratic momentum saw a shift in November 2024 when Trump secured a win in Michigan and the Republicans regained control of the state House of Representatives. Throughout her tenure, Benson has championed initiatives aimed at enhancing voter education, expanding access, and implementing a constitutional amendment for early voting, which was approved by voters in 2022. Prior to her statewide role, she practiced election law and served as the dean of Wayne State University Law School.
Her campaign platform is built on her proven leadership as Secretary of State, focusing on improving education and reducing living costs to retain Michigan’s residents. Benson has pledged to confront “powerful interests,” including Trump and Elon Musk, whom she has previously clashed with regarding electoral misinformation. Musk’s financial support for a super PAC backing Trump has illustrated the contentious relationship between the two.
Benson stands as the first prominent Democratic candidate in an increasingly competitive gubernatorial race. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan’s recent announcement of his independent run complicates the situation for Democrats who are considering their options. Benson criticized Duggan for abandoning party lines instead of tackling the challenges together. “We’re not a party that leaders should flee from, but one that we can all get behind and work to fix the problems facing everyday Americans,” she expressed.
Duggan’s choice effectively spares him from the competitive Democratic primaries. Meanwhile, former Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, who relocated to Traverse City, Michigan, after his 2020 presidential bid, has been approached by Michigan Democrats encouraging him to run. Additionally, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson are also contemplating entering the race. Swanson gained attention for his solidarity with protesters following George Floyd’s murder in 2020.
On the Republican side, state Senate leader Aric Nesbitt has recently announced his candidacy for governor, voicing support for Trump and criticizing the lack of action in Lansing. Though Democrats enjoyed substantial legislative victories after gaining control in 2022, they experienced a slowdown in legislation in 2024, sparking contention over their effectiveness.
