Michigan Democrats Seek to Mend Divides at Contentious Convention

Benson touts her record as Secretary of State ahead of party's nomination for governor

Apr. 20, 2026 at 5:48am

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A dimly lit, cinematic interior scene of an empty government office, with sunlight streaming in through the windows and casting long shadows across the desks and chairs, creating a pensive, reflective mood.In an era of political division, Michigan Democrats seek to mend old rifts and restore faith in government institutions through transparent and efficient leadership.Lansing Today

Jocelyn Benson, the front runner for the Democratic Party's nomination for governor in Michigan, says her work as Secretary of State over the past eight years will help convince voters to promote her this fall. Benson sat down for an interview to discuss her time in office, including her efforts to reduce wait times at Secretary of State offices and improve election security and transparency.

Why it matters

The Michigan Democratic Party is holding its state convention this weekend, where they will pick a new Secretary of State nominee. Benson's interview provides insight into her record and priorities as she seeks the party's nomination for governor, highlighting her work to transform the Secretary of State's office and Michigan's elections.

The details

As Secretary of State, Benson says she achieved her two main goals of reducing wait times at branch offices and increasing voter turnout. She credits listening to employees, collecting data, and implementing best practices from other states as key strategies for cutting wait times. Benson also touts her work to protect election security and increase transparency, despite facing 'unprecedented scrutiny' and 'frivolous lawsuits.' She argues that continued transparency is crucial for rebuilding voter confidence in elections.

  • Benson submitted about 30,000 petition signatures on Thursday to get her name on the Aug. 4 primary ballot for governor.
  • The Michigan Democratic Party will pick a new Secretary of State nominee at its state convention on Sunday.

The players

Jocelyn Benson

The front runner for the Democratic Party's nomination for governor of Michigan, who has served as the state's Secretary of State for the past eight years.

Ed McBroom

A Republican state senator with whom Benson worked in 2021 to answer questions about election security.

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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. I've done that as secretary of state, and I'll do that as governor.”

— Jocelyn Benson, Secretary of State

“Transparency is our friend.”

— Jocelyn Benson, Secretary of State

What’s next

The Michigan Democratic Party will hold its state convention on Sunday, where delegates will pick a new nominee for Secretary of State.

The takeaway

Benson's interview highlights her record of improving customer service and election security as Secretary of State, which she believes will help her win the Democratic nomination for governor. However, she acknowledges that transforming large government systems can invite criticism, underscoring the need for continued transparency to rebuild voter confidence.