Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson on Jan. 22 launched a bid to become her state’s next governor, joining a field seeking to succeed Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who cannot run in 2026 due to term limits.
Benson, a Democrat like Whitmer, said in her announcement video that it’s become clear after speaking to Michigan residents that too many “feel left out in the cold, their voices drowned out by more powerful ones.”
“I’m running for governor to truly make government work for everyone,” she added later. “We need leaders who are transparent and accountable. We need our schools and neighborhoods to be safe for all of us. Every Michigander should be able to pay their bills, put food on the table and take care of their families. We deserve access to affordable health care and reproductive freedom, and our kids deserve schools that are the best in the nation, along with quality, affordable child care. Let’s make Michigan the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, stay, and call home.”…