Jocelyn Benson Reflects on Tenure as Michigan Secretary of State

Outgoing official touts efficiency gains and voter access improvements ahead of gubernatorial run.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 5:24am

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A solitary, well-lit office desk with a Michigan state flag and a nameplate, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and civic duty.As Jocelyn Benson prepares to step down as Michigan's Secretary of State, her record of streamlining government services and expanding voter access will be a central focus of her gubernatorial campaign.Lansing Today

Jocelyn Benson, the outgoing Michigan Secretary of State and front-runner for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, believes her record of streamlining government services and expanding voter access will resonate with voters as she campaigns to become the state's next governor.

Why it matters

As a high-profile statewide elected official, Benson's tenure as Secretary of State provides a window into her governing philosophy and policy priorities, which will be central to her pitch to voters in the upcoming gubernatorial race.

The details

During her eight years as Secretary of State, Benson has overseen efforts to digitize and automate many DMV and voter registration processes, reducing wait times and making government more efficient for Michigan residents. She has also championed initiatives to expand early voting and absentee ballot access, drawing both praise from voting rights advocates and criticism from some Republicans concerned about election integrity.

  • Benson has served as Michigan's Secretary of State since 2019.
  • The Michigan Democratic Party will select its nominee for Secretary of State at a convention on Sunday, April 19, 2026.

The players

Jocelyn Benson

The outgoing Michigan Secretary of State and front-runner for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination.

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What they’re saying

“I think that's what people are looking for: A government that saves them time, saves them money and makes their life easier.”

— Jocelyn Benson, Michigan Secretary of State

What’s next

Benson is expected to formally launch her gubernatorial campaign in the coming weeks, where she will likely highlight her record as Secretary of State as a key part of her platform.

The takeaway

Benson's tenure as Michigan's top election official has positioned her as a prominent voice on issues of voter access and government efficiency, which she will seek to leverage in her bid for the governor's mansion.