Two Democrats file petitions for Michigan governor race

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson submit signatures to challenge incumbent in primary

Apr. 17, 2026 at 7:57pm

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A vibrant, abstract painting featuring the distorted, overlapping figures of two politicians in suits, conveying the dynamic and competitive nature of the upcoming Democratic gubernatorial primary in Michigan.The contested Democratic primary for Michigan governor promises an energetic battle between established political figures.Lansing Today

Two prominent Michigan Democrats, Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, have filed petitions to get on the ballot for the state's 2026 gubernatorial primary election, setting up a contested race for the party's nomination.

Why it matters

The Michigan governor's race is expected to be a key battleground in the 2026 election cycle, with the incumbent facing challenges from within their own party. A contested Democratic primary could shape the general election campaign and priorities for the next administration.

The details

Swanson, a first-term sheriff, said he turned in over 26,000 petition signatures on Friday, well above the 15,000 required to qualify for the ballot. Benson, the current Secretary of State, also submitted petitions to run, though the exact number was not disclosed. Both candidates vowed that the primary would not be "a coronation for anybody" as they seek to unseat the incumbent governor.

  • Swanson submitted his petitions on Friday, April 17, 2026.
  • Benson also filed petitions to run, though the exact date was not specified.

The players

Chris Swanson

Genesee County Sheriff and Democratic candidate for Michigan governor.

Jocelyn Benson

Michigan Secretary of State and Democratic candidate for governor.

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What they’re saying

“The upcoming gubernatorial election won't be a coronation for anybody.”

— Chris Swanson, Genesee County Sheriff

What’s next

The Michigan Secretary of State's office will review the petitions submitted by Swanson and Benson to verify they have the required number of valid signatures to qualify for the Democratic primary ballot.

The takeaway

The 2026 Michigan governor's race is shaping up to be a competitive Democratic primary, with two high-profile candidates challenging the incumbent. This intraparty contest could have significant implications for the general election and the policy priorities of the next administration.