According to CBS News, Jocelyn Benson, the Michigan Secretary of State, is anticipated to be the victor in Tuesday’s Democratic primary for governor.
By 9 p.m., preliminary results indicated that Benson had secured 211,877 votes, significantly outpacing Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson, who received 38,439 votes. At that point, approximately 17% of the ballots had been tallied.
Benson is set to compete against Congressman John James, who emerged victorious in the Republican primary.
Andy Beshear, Chair of the Democratic Governors Association, issued a statement congratulating Benson on her nomination, stating, “I extend my congratulations to Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for becoming the Democratic nominee for governor in Michigan. Jocelyn is aware of the challenges families face and has proven herself as a dedicated public servant who works to reform ineffective systems and enhance the lives of Michiganders.” He continued, “In her role as Secretary of State, she fulfilled her commitments, transforming one of Michigan’s largest departments to save citizens time, increase transparency, and safeguard our democracy from ongoing threats. As governor, Jocelyn will combat corruption, reduce healthcare, housing, and energy costs, and confront Donald Trump when he jeopardizes the freedoms of Michigan families.” Beshear concluded by stating that the DGA is fully committed to ensuring Benson’s success in this crucial race.
Similarly, Ken Martin, Chair of the Democratic National Convention, expressed his congratulations: “Congratulations to Jocelyn Benson for securing the Democratic nomination to be Michigan’s next governor. Throughout her career as Secretary of State, Jocelyn has devoted herself to serving Michiganders, protecting voting rights, and delivering tangible results for families statewide. Her leadership record has garnered the trust of Michigan voters, and Democrats stand united in support of her as we strive to lower costs, safeguard healthcare, and build on our achievements to propel Michigan forward.”
Benson was first elected in 2018 and currently manages the state’s election operations as well as the motor vehicle department. She has highlighted her successes in this capacity, including reducing wait times for in-person appointments and establishing self-service motor vehicle stations throughout the state.
Her campaign is centered on a commitment to fostering accountability and transparency within state government while advocating for a progressive vision that benefits Michigan’s families. Benson has been vocal in her criticism of former President Trump, who has perpetuated allegations of voter fraud related to the 2020 election.
In recent months, Benson has faced various legal challenges. In January 2026, four Black employees filed a lawsuit against her, alleging workplace racial discrimination. Additionally, in May 2025, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel stated that Benson had violated state law by conducting a campaign press conference in a state building’s lobby, to which Benson responded that she aimed to protect attendees from the cold weather.
Chris Swanson, who was elected as sheriff of Michigan’s fifth-largest county in 2020, announced his candidacy for governor following his rise to national prominence for marching with protestors after George Floyd’s death and speaking at the 2024 Democratic National Convention.
Swanson’s educational background includes attendance at Mott Community College in Flint and the University of Michigan, where he obtained both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public administration, as noted on his campaign website.
Benson’s campaign emphasizes key issues such as housing affordability, healthcare, childcare, energy costs, and the advancement of renewable energy infrastructure. She also addresses the contentious topic of data centers in Southeast Michigan, advocating for job creation and affordable energy for residents while supporting public hearings to address community concerns.
In contrast, Swanson’s campaign focuses on initiatives such as a cannabis protection plan, a pet protection plan, and the expansion of the I.G.N.I.T.E. program in jails. This program, which he initiated in Genesee County in 2020, aims to reduce recidivism through educational programs. He is also advocating for increased funding for school safety measures, including bulletproof glass, metal detectors, and controlled entry points to protect students and staff from potential threats.
Other priorities for Swanson include reducing Freedom of Information Act exemptions for government officials, fostering economic growth, and implementing a comprehensive education plan that offers free breakfast and lunch to all Michigan students while addressing literacy issues.
