by Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson officially enters the 2026 gubernatorial race, vowing to champion fairness, transparency, and opportunity.
Benson’s Run for Governor Highlights Bold Vision for Michigan
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson declared her candidacy for governor in a video released Wednesday, promising to focus on fairness, opportunity, and ensuring every Michigander has a voice. Benson, a Democrat, emphasized her record as Secretary of State, her personal story of resilience, and her vision for a stronger, more inclusive Michigan.
“I’m running for governor to truly make government work for everyone,” Benson said in the announcement.
Commitment Rooted in Personal and Professional Experience
Benson, the daughter of two public school teachers who worked in special education, said her upbringing instilled in her a sense of responsibility to ensure fairness. She pointed to her work investigating radical extremist groups, teaching civil rights and voting rights law, and improving Michigan’s Department of State during her tenure as evidence of her dedication to public service.
She recounted moments of personal challenge, including the financial struggles of her middle-class upbringing and supporting her husband, Ryan, during his deployment to Afghanistan.
Achievements as Secretary of State Bolster Campaign
Benson highlighted her record of reform as Secretary of State, a role she assumed in 2019. Under her leadership, the department introduced measures to streamline services, including online expansions, self-service stations, and mobile offices that brought resources to underserved areas.
“We eliminated the long lines, expanded online services, and launched mobile offices to bring services to every corner of our state,” Benson said.
Her tenure also brought challenges, including protests outside her home during the height of election disputes in 2020. Benson described facing armed demonstrators but reaffirmed her commitment to counting every legitimate vote and ensuring election transparency.
Vision for Michigan’s Future
Benson’s gubernatorial platform centers on rebuilding trust in government, making it more transparent and accountable and addressing key issues affecting Michigan families. She outlined priorities including affordable healthcare, reproductive freedom, economic opportunity, and elevating Michigan’s public education system to national prominence.
“Every Michigander should be able to pay their bills, put food on the table, and take care of their families,” Benson said. “We deserve access to affordable healthcare and reproductive freedom, and our kids deserve schools that are the best in the nation.”
Challenges In Michigan Governor Race in a Divided Political Climate
Benson enters the race at a time of heightened political polarization in Michigan. Her reputation as a staunch defender of election integrity and advocate for fair governance may galvanize Democratic voters but could also face resistance from Republican challengers.
Political analysts expect a competitive race, with Benson’s campaign appealing to middle-class families, educators, and voters who supported her efforts to expand voting rights and services.
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