LANSING, Mich. — Garlin Gilchrist II, a notable figure from Detroit and Michigan’s first Black lieutenant governor, has officially announced his candidacy for the state’s gubernatorial race in 2026. With the Democratic field becoming increasingly competitive, Gilchrist steps into the spotlight.
Before rising as a significant political figure, Gilchrist’s career path began as a software engineer. His political journey took a swift turn in 2018 when he joined forces with Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Over the past six years, his association with Whitmer, a prominent figure in the Democratic Party, helped elevate his profile.
Ahead of his announcement, Gilchrist expressed his approach by stating, “When you have a problem, an engineer can fix that problem.” He’s built relationships across Michigan, covering all 83 counties, which he believes will strengthen his campaign narrative.
His gubernatorial campaign promises to focus on critical issues like expanding affordable housing and improving access to health care services, with a particular emphasis on mental health. Gilchrist also acknowledged the dissatisfaction that led to President Donald Trump’s significant victory in Michigan, describing it as stemming from a “status quo that wasn’t serving them.”
Reflecting on his early career relocation to Washington state for a role at Microsoft after completing his education at the University of Michigan, Gilchrist emphasizes a Michigan-first vision if elected. “I want us to make good choices today so that the people of Michigan know that they can take their next step here,” he said, emphasizing opportunities for building careers and families.
His alignment with Whitmer remains strong, as suggested in his comments during an interview, where he refrained from diverging from the incumbent. He praised their collaborative efforts in setting a foundation for Michigan’s future.
Gilchrist, emerging as a rising Democratic star, has solid support from Detroit, a significant Democratic area with a substantial Black population. If successful, he would make history as the first Black governor of Michigan. Despite narrowly losing the race for Detroit City Clerk in 2017, his significant leap onto the Democratic ticket with Whitmer bolstered his appeal and visibility.
Historically, however, Michigan lieutenant governors have struggled in gubernatorial races. The recent example being Brian Calley, whose bid ended in a defeat during the 2018 Republican primary.
As Gilchrist enters the Democratic primaries, he joins the race alongside Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson. Governor Whitmer has decided not to endorse any candidates.
The general election is expected to present formidable challenges. Apart from facing a likely Republican opponent, potentially led by Senate Leader Aric Nesbitt, there’s also the prospect of running against Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, who is entering the race as an independent after his tenure as a Democrat.
