Michigan Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson on Wednesday announced her candidacy to succeed Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who has been embroiled in a competitive, high-profile contest to lead one of the nation’s landmark states.
“It is clear that many feel left out in the cold, and that their voices are drowned out by stronger voices,” Ms. Benson said in her speech. Advertisement video. “I will continue to stand up to any bullies or billionaires who try to cheat us, divide us, take away our rights, or deny anyone the chance to have a fair shot.”
The Democratic primary race could be crowded, which could attract other prominent state politicians, including Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in recent years moved to Michigan from Indiana, prompting Speculation He may seek office there, though some also consider him a potential contender for the presidency in 2028.
When asked in an interview last month if he thought he knew Michigan well enough to run, he said: Mr. Buttigieg replied“I have a lot of humility about moving to Michigan just a few years ago, even though of course I grew up in the neighborhood.”
Further complicating the race for Democrats is the decision by Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, a longtime Democrat, to run for re-election. Running for governor as an independent.
Other Michigan gubernatorial candidates upended by Donald Trump in last fall’s presidential election include Eric Nesbitt, the Republican leader in the Michigan Senate.
