(The Center Square) – Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has declared her bid for governor.
Benson, a Democrat, is running to fill the seat currently held by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
“I’m running to be Governor of Michigan to ensure everyone gets a fair shot,” Benson said in her announcement. “I’m a mom, military spouse, educator — and Michigan’s Secretary of State. I’ve never backed down from a tough fight or hard work. And I know together we can build the future Michiganders deserve.”
Both Benson and Whitmer are currently term-limited. Whitmer has not released a statement regarding Benson’s run, who is the first high-powered Democrat to declare intentions for the 2026 governor’s race.
In December, Democrat Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan shocked many by declaring he will run for governor as an independent. Duggan promised “real change” and a move away from “divisive politics” if he is elected.
Republican state Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt launched his gubernatorial campaign last week, stating that “it’s time to start putting the people of Michigan first.”
He has already nicknamed Benson “Gerrymander Jocelyn,” referring to her role in the controversies surrounding the 2020 General Election in Michigan.
Benson has also made that a key part of her campaign, with her campaign video featuring footage of protestors outside her house in 2020.
“I’m proud of my record as Michigan’s Secretary of State — including overseeing two of the most secure elections with record-breaking turnout,” she said. “Protecting your voice, and your vote, during a time when both are under attack is the greatest honor of my life. And I’ll be proud to continue doing just that as Michigan’s governor.”
A Detroit-native, Benson was first elected secretary of state in 2018, winning by 9%. She was reelected in 2022 by 14%, which set a record for the largest margin and vote share among statewide candidates that year.
That same year, Whitmer was reelected by 11%.
Benson, though very popular with Democrats, has continued to be a controversial figure even since 2020, often weighing in on political issues from “misinformation” to education.
“We must choose: Hope over fear. Books over bans. Unity over division. Compassion over cruelty. Truth over lies,” Benson recently posted to social media.
