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Jocelyn has a proven track record of transforming broken government systems and fixing them to save Michiganders time and money while protecting their rights and freedoms. As governor, she will make Michigan more affordable, take our public schools to the top 10 in the nation, and make government work for Michiganders.&nbsp;

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<h3 style="text-align: center;">Civil rights advocate, youngest woman dean of an accredited law school in American history, Michigan's Secretary of State, military spouse, and mother – Jocelyn Benson is running for governor to make Michigan the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home. Her career has been defined by fearless public service and transformational leadership.</h3>

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The daughter of two special education teachers, Jocelyn was raised in a working-class family that instilled the values of hard work, opportunity, and serving others.From a young age, she knew she wanted to fight for justice and make a difference. As a student at Wellesley College, she became the first college student ever elected to the governing body for the town of Wellesley, Massachusetts. After college, Jocelyn dedicated herself to investigating threats to democracy and civil rights. She went undercover in Alabama to investigate domestic terrorist cells that emerged following the Oklahoma City bombing, then traveled to the United Kingdom to study the international links of modern white supremacists and neo-Nazi movements. She brought this same commitment to protecting and defending people’s rights and freedoms to Detroit, where she served as a law clerk to the Honorable Damon J. Keith, continuing her work in service and civil rights.<h3 style="text-align: center;">Jocelyn made history when she was appointed dean of Wayne State University Law School at age 35.</h3>As the youngest woman to lead an accredited law school in American history, Jocelyn built a team rooted in honesty, integrity, and service. She raised significant funds to ensure all students could afford their education, froze tuition, and expanded scholarships to lower costs for families. Under her leadership, Wayne Law became one of the country's leading law schools.<h3 style="text-align: center;">When Jocelyn became Michigan's Secretary of State in 2019, she got to work on day one to make life easier for every Michigander.</h3>She transformed Michigan's motor vehicle department from having some of the longest wait times in the country into a national model for government efficiency. Jocelyn eliminated wait times, created over 150 self-service stations to serve Michiganders in every corner of the state, and implemented initiatives to make Michigan's elections the most secure and accessible in the nation. In the face of threats to both herself and her colleagues, Jocelyn oversaw two of the highest turnout and most transparent elections in the state's history. Those results led to a 14-point victory in 2022, leading the ticket and winning counties no other Democrat had.&nbsp;

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Jocelyn Benson has a proven track record of delivering for Michigan. Local and community leaders, working families, and leaders across the state are excited to back Jocelyn to be the next Governor of Michigan.

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<h3>Making Michigan the best place to call home.</h3>It’s past time we root out the corruption holding us back and build a government that truly works for people – a government that makes life more affordable for families – from housing to healthcare to childcare to education.&nbsp;

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This week, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson launched her statewide Thrive in Michigan tour on Monday with a townhall in Traverse City. Top of mind for residents: Housing.&nbsp;Too many families and young people are being priced out of their homes and communities and Benson knows making Michigan the best place to call home starts with ensuring that every Michigander can afford to thrive in a safe and secure environment.&nbsp;Benson is no stranger to taking broken systems and fixing them and she’s not afraid to take a hard look at the rules and regulations that currently bottleneck our permitting processes and drive up construction costs. During the townhall, she talked about her commitment to partnering with mayors, city councils, and municipal leagues to incentivize Smart Zoning and Workforce Housing initiatives that support local governments to legalize duplexes, triplexes, and small multi-family units that expand housing options and affordability.Key point: “I want to make it less expensive and easier to build a new home,” [Benson] said. “It costs up to $90,000 to build a home before you lay a brick because of all the regulations and hoops you need to jump through. We need to change that. I also want to create public-private partnerships to build things like duplexes and triplexes that can accommodate more families who are priced out of the market now.”<a href="https://www.record-eagle.com/news/local_news/mi-governors-race-benson-kicks-off-campaign-tour-in-tc/article_1f0bb737-ec03-4d95-a484-905e91c2ab9f.html">Traverse City Record-Eagle: </a>Benson kicks off campaign tour in TC[Peter Kobs, 6/17/2025]&nbsp;Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, who is running for governor in 2026, kicked off her statewide campaign tour in Traverse City on Monday with a pledge to tackle the most urgent concerns of northern Michigan residents if she is elected.[…]She later addressed a crowd of 75 at a town hall at the main branch of the Traverse Area District Library.“Wherever I go, everyone brought up housing costs,” said the 47-year-old candidate who was first elected secretary of state in 2018.“It’s particularly a problem in the Traverse City area. The natural beauty of this area is spectacular but the home prices are a real problem,” she said, noting a three-bedroom ranch in Suttons Bay that recently sold for about $1.1 million.“That’s a three-bedroom house that a family should be able to live in. Instead, it may go to someone who will be here three months out of the year. That is untenable and unacceptable.”[…]Unscrupulous landlords, outdated zoning rules, complicated building requirements and the pernicious impact of private equity firms buying up residential properties have also contributed to that breathtaking rise in housing costs, she said.If elected governor, Benson said she’d attack the problem from several angles.“I want to make it less expensive and easier to build a new home,” she said. “It costs up to $90,000 to build a home before you lay a brick because of all the regulations and hoops you need to jump through. We need to change that. I also want to create public-private partnerships to build things like duplexes and triplexes that can accommodate more families who are priced out of the market now.”She also proposed stricter regulations for short-term rentals to ensure affordable rent levels for young families, service workers, teachers, health care workers and first responders.[…]Updating the state’s revenue-generating strategy, including taxation, is also needed, she said. That could include new taxes on corporations from around the country — and around the world — that are buying up residences, then using that extra revenue to fund affordable housing.At the town hall event on Monday evening, local Democratic Party leader Trenton Lee and state Rep. Betsy Coffia noted that an 800-unit mobile home park in the area was recently acquired by an outside private equity firm. The result: Significantly higher rents.“One of those lots was asking $1,500 a month to rent a mobile home,” they said. “I think we need legislation to deal with this.”

This week, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson launched her statewide Thrive in Michigan tour on Monday with a townhall in Traverse City. Top of mind for residents: Housing.&nbsp;Too many families and young people...

ICYMI: Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson Addresses Housing Affordability Crisis in Traverse City Townhall

Healthcare should be a right, not a privilege. With all of the chaos, corruption, and confusion emerging from Washington, D.C. — where elected officials are ripping away Medicaid for hundreds of thousands of people, women's health care is under attack, and many Michiganders have to travel across multiple counties just to get to their doctor, a Democratic Governor in Michigan will be the last line of defense against the failings at the federal level. But I don't just want to be on defense. I want to make sure Michigan knows I have their back when it comes to getting them the quality, affordable care they need.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9b12638-e867-4422-b5c9-3bbe3a93dc72/e9ad2133-1ff4-436f-a8c9-d372daff4281/e9ad2133-1ff4-436f-a8c9-d372daff4281.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C5051%2C3995&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="50" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Here's the truth: Michigan's Department of Health and Human Services is broken. The system is too complicated, too outdated, and too disconnected from the people it's supposed to serve. Before we can build something better, we have to fix what's broken. That starts with making sure people seeking resources can actually access them from our government. Just as I fixed a broken system as Secretary of State and took our elections from #34 to #2 in the nation, I'll bring the same data-driven ethic to our broken healthcare system.But the problem runs even deeper than federal cuts. Our healthcare system has been corrupted by corporate greed, with too many decisions being made by CEOs and investors instead of doctors and patients. We need to shift the focus from profits to people. That corruption shows up in the privatization schemes and price gouging that have driven up costs for Michigan families, forcing them to make impossible decisions about when they can find a provider and what health issues they can afford to address. It shows up in sky-high prescription drug costs that prevent people from completing their treatments, and in surprise medical bills that bankrupt families who thought they were doing everything right.As Governor, I'll fight back. I'll work to increase options for low or no-cost preventive healthcare services across Michigan, because when people can get timely treatment, they address health issues before they become emergencies — saving lives and reducing costs. I'll push for real transparency and accountability in prescription drug pricing through an independent Prescription Drug Affordability Board with the authority to review manufacturing practices and approve price increases. And I'll champion healthcare cost transparency legislation to end the surprise billing that makes even routine procedures unaffordable, while expanding medical debt relief for the thousands of Michiganders crushed by expenses they never saw coming<h3>Read the full healthcare affordability agenda <a href="/affordability-agenda-healthcare.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.</h3>

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Yesterday in Southfield, to wrap up Women’s History Month, Secretary Jocelyn Benson joined over 250 Fems for Dems members for a community conversation to celebrate the strength and resilience of women in Michigan with the spirit of Rosie the Riveter, and discuss what we need to do next for our education, housing access, and economic wellbeing to ensure Michigan is the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home.&nbsp;&nbsp;As Secretary of State, Jocelyn has the experience in overhauling major agencies that aren’t working properly into agencies that save Michiganders time and money – taking our elections from #31 in the country to #2, and making our Secretary of State offices a national model for saving people time and money. As governor, she’s committed to cutting red tape and waste so public education funding reaches the schools that need it, parents can access childcare support from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and every Michigander, no matter their zip code, has access to reproductive health care.&nbsp;<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9b12638-e867-4422-b5c9-3bbe3a93dc72/bec04ca8-d2fa-4179-9e9d-93a4b51ccbcc/bec04ca8-d2fa-4179-9e9d-93a4b51ccbcc.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1600%2C1066&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="base">“Remember how you felt after 2016? How shocked we felt? But then we rolled our sleeves up, and organizations like Fems for Dems started organizing. And what happened in 2018? The women of Michigan fought back,” said Jocelyn Benson. “What determines how our story continues after November 5, 2024 is what we do next to make Michigan the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home.”

Yesterday in Southfield, to wrap up Women’s History Month, Secretary Jocelyn Benson joined over 250 Fems for Dems members for a community conversation to celebrate the strength and resilience of women in Michigan with the spirit...

Jocelyn Benson, Fems for Dems, Hold Women’s History Month Event With Over 250 Women in Southfield

Today, Detroit's former U.S. Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence endorsed Jocelyn Benson for Governor.&nbsp;“I am proud to say that I have three decades of experience in public service to Southeast Michigan. Throughout my career, I have been committed to supporting leaders who demonstrate compassion, ethical principles, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. That is why I am proud to endorse Jocelyn Benson for governor,” said Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence. “I have had the opportunity to watch her serve in many roles, and she has proven herself to be a fierce defender of the rule of law and our election systems, with an unwavering commitment to serving all people. As we look toward the governor’s seat, I strongly urge everyone to support the leader we need at this moment in our history. Jocelyn Benson knows the people of Michigan, is willing to do the hard work, and will keep our state moving forward as a leader in the nation.”“It’s an honor to have former Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence’s support in this race,” said Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson. “Former Congresswoman Lawrence knows all too well the challenges Michiganders are facing as costs rise and a government too often isn’t on their side. As governor I’ll show up for Michigan, and work to build a Michigan that everyone can afford and a government that truly works for the people. Together we will make Detroit, and the entire state, the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home.”Former Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence joins a growing coalition of supporters across the state for Jocelyn's campaign for governor. Jocelyn has received labor endorsements from Michigan Laborers Council, the majority of the Michigan Teamsters Locals, UFCW Locals 876 and 951 in Southfield and Grand Rapids, and the Association of Flight Attendants - CWA as well as national organizations including EMILYs List and End Citizens United. She also has the support of over 20 state legislators, the Michigan Democrat Party’s Black Caucus and nearly two dozen municipal leaders from across Michigan including the mayors of Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Cadillac, Highland Park, Oak Park, Pleasant Ridge, and Berkeley.###

Today, Detroit's former U.S. Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence endorsed Jocelyn Benson for Governor.&nbsp;

Detroit’s Former U.S. Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor

Today, the Michigan Laborers’ District Council (LiUNA), which represents over 14,000 members who build our state’s roads, bridges, transit, and energy sources, endorsed Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson as the next Governor of Michigan.In their endorsement of Benson, LiUNA Leaders in Michigan praised her proven track record of cutting red tape at the Secretary of State’s office and saving Michiganders time and money, rebuilding and improving systems so they work efficiently for the people of Michigan, and her vision to build an economy that brings in high-paying, union jobs for workers across the state.&nbsp;“Secretary Benson’s track record of getting things done speaks for itself. You can’t mention the Secretary of State’s office without someone saying how much better it runs and how thankful they are to have a leader who cares about their time and money,” said Michigan District Council Business Manager Brent Pilarski. “She’ll be a governor who gives workers a real seat at the table, and she’ll fight to bring the high-paying jobs my members need to live and succeed in Michigan. We look forward to working with her on projects and legislation that lift working people up, preserve prevailing wage, and defend against the chaotic and corrupt policies coming out of D.C., like Trump’s tariffs.”&nbsp;“Jocelyn Benson is the leader we need here in Michigan to continue the pro-worker progress we’ve made in the last decade,” said Local 355 Business Manager Arlander Washington. “She knows that folks in West Michigan and across this state are struggling with rising costs and increasing unemployment thanks to the reckless policies coming out of D.C., and she’ll work to make it easier for working men and women to afford their groceries, buy a house wherever they want to live, and retire with dignity after working a full life. ”&nbsp;“My support for Secretary Benson comes from her clear commitment to expanding workforce training and union apprenticeship opportunities. For the kids who choose not to, or can’t afford to go to college, strong support from our next governor on these programs will help the next generation start off strong on their feet with a living wage and real-world skills, so they stay and live in Michigan,” said Local 499 Business Manager Dan Minton. “We need that kind of leadership. Someone who can look past the partisan divide, focus on solutions, and bring people together to do what’s right for the state. That’s the kind of governor she’ll be.”&nbsp;“I’m so grateful to have the support of LiUNA and their 14,000 members across Michigan, said Jocelyn Benson. “I share their grit, determination and dedication to building a state where everyone can thrive – and they know that in me they will have a Governor who sees them, hears them, and fights for them every day. Together we are building a winning coalition that will be poised to win next November, and then we will work to ensure every Michigander, no matter their zip code, has access to high paying jobs, affordable health care, world class public schools and safe workplaces. We will make Michigan the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home – for everyone.”&nbsp;LiUNA joins a growing coalition of labor unions in support of Jocelyn Benson for Governor, including UFCW Local 951 and 876, West Michigan Plumbers, PipeFitters, and HVAC Service UA Local 174, and the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA.

Today, the Michigan Laborers’ District Council (LiUNA), which represents over 14,000 members who build our state’s roads, bridges, transit, and energy sources, endorsed Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson as the next Governor of Michigan. In their...

Michigan Laborers’ District Council (LiUNA) Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor

Today, EMILY’s List, the nation’s largest resource for women in politics, endorsed Jocelyn Benson in the race for Governor of Michigan.“EMILYs List is proud to support Jocelyn Benson to be Michigan’s next governor. Sec. Benson has worked tirelessly to ensure her office runs as efficiently as possible to uphold and protect the will of Michiganders,” said EMILYs List President Jessica Mackler. “As governor, we are confident she will continue her strong track record of protecting our freedoms, and will work to ensure that all Michigan families have access to affordable housing and health care. We have been proud to support Sec. Benson in her previous elections and are honored to support her now.”“Michiganders enshrined reproductive rights in our constitution in 2023, but there’s still more work to do to lower costs so parents can have affordable childcare, women feel empowered to open their own businesses right here in Michigan, and maternal health care is expanded,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “I’m proud to have the support of EMILYs List, and as Michigan’s next Governor I will continue to fight tirelessly to protect and expand women’s rights.Jocelyn has been a fighter and protector of women’s rights her entire life. She looks forward to continuing those efforts as Michigan’s next Governor with the support of EMILYs List.EMILYs List has supported Benson in 2010, 2018, and 2022 in previous elections.EMILYs List, the nation’s largest resource for women in politics, works to elect Democratic pro-choice women up and down the ballot and across the country with a goal of fighting for our rights and our communities. Over nearly 40 years, EMILYs List has raised nearly $950 million to help Democratic women win competitive elections by recruiting and training candidates, supporting and helping build strong campaigns, researching the issues that impact women and families, running one of the most impactful independent expenditure operations for Democrats, and turning out women voters to the polls. Since our founding in 1985, we have helped elect the country’s first woman as vice president, 192 women to the House, 29 to the Senate, 20 governors, and over 1,600 women to state and local office. More than 40% of the candidates EMILYs List has helped elect to Congress have been women of color. Visit <a href="http://www.emilyslist.org">www.emilyslist.org</a> for more information.

Today, EMILY’s List, the nation’s largest resource for women in politics, endorsed Jocelyn Benson in the race for Governor of Michigan. “EMILYs List is proud to support Jocelyn Benson...

EMILYs List Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor

In response to Donald Trump’s complete disregard for working Michiganders who rely on federal funding for healthcare, housing, food, and more, Jocelyn Benson released the following statement:&nbsp;“President Trump’s sweeping, nonsensical decision to pause critical federal funding will have real, damaging effects to Michiganders – including many of the very citizens who voted for him just a few months ago believing he would make their lives easier. Instead, his unilateral move is setting off a wave of chaos and confusion for communities who look to leaders to make their lives easier, not harder. As a mom, and a state leader, I will work with our Senators and Congressional leaders to stand up to anyone in federal government who puts the wellbeing, safety, and health of our residents at risk. And that’s exactly what Trump’s decision today will do.”Here’s what’s at stake for Michigan under Donald Trump:&nbsp;<ul><li><a href="https://headstart.gov/program-data/article/head-start-program-facts-fiscal-year-2023">There are nearly 28K</a>&nbsp; kids in Michigan who rely on Head Start. That’s thousands of parents who will have to stay home without childcare.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>There are <a href="https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/inside-mdhhs/newsroom/2024/06/24/may-medicaid">more than 2.6 million people in Michigan</a> who rely on Medicaid to get the healthcare they need. They could instead have to pay thousands of dollars out of pocket for regular doctor’s appointments.&nbsp;</li></ul>The <a href="https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/docs/default-source/fact-sheets/2024/2024-state-fact-sheets/state-fact-sheet-2024-michigan.pdf?sfvrsn=fb528e3b_2">140,000 seniors</a> across Michigan who rely on Meals on Wheels for nutritious meals could go hungry.

In response to Donald Trump’s complete disregard for working Michiganders who rely on federal funding for healthcare, housing, food, and more, Jocelyn Benson released the following statement:&nbsp;“President Trump’s sweeping, nonsensical decision to pause critical federal...

Jocelyn Benson Statement on Donald Trump Pausing Federal Dollars for Thousands of Working of Michiganders

Today, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson met with Michiganders in Flint, Bay City, and Saginaw to share her vision for Michigan. &nbsp;Benson is the only candidate for governor who has released a thorough <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=3fa680f15c&amp;e=486aa7a2e0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">agenda</a> to lower healthcare costs for all Michiganders and improve maternal healthcare.&nbsp;In Flint, Benson joined Danielle Atkinson, maternal health advocate, and Janet Poole, a local nurse, for a press conference on Jocelyn’s plan to improve maternal healthcare in Michigan and bring down costs.&nbsp;<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9b12638-e867-4422-b5c9-3bbe3a93dc72/92c721a3-7219-4db9-808e-ffbdffe7d9ee/92c721a3-7219-4db9-808e-ffbdffe7d9ee.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1236%2C946&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="40" variant="base">“As leaders in Michigan, we have a moral responsibility to fix [the Black maternal healthcare crisis],” said Secretary Benson during the press conference. “As your next governor, I will treat and prioritize and address the Black maternal healthcare crisis with the urgency that it demands. And that's why we're here today. That's why I'm proud to have built a healthcare plan with input from communities here in Flint and all over Michigan that will address Black maternal health. It is a central piece for my vision of Michigan's healthy future.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“I'm so proud to be here in Flint and stand with Jocelyn Benson, the only candidate for governor with a comprehensive healthcare agenda, she is committed to bringing down the cost for all Michiganders and confronting the problems that surround Black maternal healthcare and are leading to the crisis,” said Danielle Atkinson. “Oftentimes, when politicians release their policy plans, women's health and maternal health are ignored, especially when it comes to women of color. But the reality is that in the United States, we have one of the highest maternal mortality rates in developing countries – Black women are three to four times more likely to die of childbirth and childbirth related causes than their white counterparts. I hear the heartbreaking stories from women around the country and in our own state, and it doesn't have to be this way, and it's past time that we've had leaders who are willing to do something about it, and that's why I'm standing with Jocelyn Benson.”“I am proud to stand for Jocelyn Benson and encourage everyone I know to vote for her to be our next governor. She's not afraid to take on big challenges and put them front and center. She is the only candidate for governor with a comprehensive agenda to bring down costs and tackle the Black maternal healthcare crisis, because don't let anyone fool you. We can and must do both at the same time. Her plan isn't just another set of empty promises, but a strategy based on what we in the medical field know works and doesn't work,” said Janet Poole.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9b12638-e867-4422-b5c9-3bbe3a93dc72/6016e4cf-0bd4-41e0-9ea8-d8fa8bd96d32/6016e4cf-0bd4-41e0-9ea8-d8fa8bd96d32.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1236%2C886&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="40" variant="base">Earlier in the day, Benson met with the Bay City Chamber to discuss her plan to make Michigan the best place to start and grow a small business, and turn the state into the economic engine of the Midwest and Great Lakes region.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9b12638-e867-4422-b5c9-3bbe3a93dc72/210c327b-a01c-4b65-9b4d-c263dcdb6658/210c327b-a01c-4b65-9b4d-c263dcdb6658.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1092%2C980&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="40" variant="base">During a stop in Saginaw, Benson joined faith leaders to listen and learn about the issues facing their communities and how she can deliver for them as governor.###

Today, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson met with Michiganders in Flint, Bay City, and Saginaw to share her vision for Michigan. &nbsp;Benson is the only candidate for governor who has released a thorough <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=3fa680f15c&amp;e=486aa7a2e0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">agenda</a> to lower healthcare costs for all Michiganders and improve maternal healthcare.&nbsp;

Benson Discusses Maternal Healthcare in Flint, Meets with Michiganders in Bay City and Saginaw

<a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=068ddd684a&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Benson</a>: “You can't create jobs if people can't afford to live in the communities they're working in."Yesterday, Jocelyn Benson unveiled <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=f16d4ba0f7&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">her plan</a> to lower the cost of housing and build more homes across Michigan, so that every Michigander can afford a home in the community where they live and work.As governor, Jocelyn will expand housing production statewide through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, cut red tape and speed up permitting so homes can be built faster, create a statewide housing data system to show where the needs are, strengthen renter protections, and give communities more control over short-term rentals – all while partnering with local leaders to give residents the access to housing they need.In case you missed it…&nbsp;In print:Detroit Free Press: <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=30bc58f419&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Jocelyn Benson pitches plan to address Michigan housing shortage</a>[Arpan Lobo, 3/2/2026]&nbsp;Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson offered her pitch to address housing issues if elected Michigan’s next governor during a roundtable discussion in Grand Rapids on Monday, March 2.“It’s clear to me if we want to keep our young people, our talented people here in Michigan, we have to ensure there are places for them to live," Benson said, flanked by local housing advocates and other officials.Her plan calls for easing homebuilding permitting processes, expanding tax credits for first-time home buyers and banning private equity firms from buying homes in Michigan within the first 100 days they hit the market, among other proposals.[...]Specifically, she said her administration would streamline permitting processes for homebuilders, which she said can delay construction by months. She also called for expanding homestead tax credits, something her campaign said would allow more working families and seniors keep up with rising property taxes.[...]"It's a real economic development issue," she told reporters following the event. "When it comes to creating jobs, you can't create jobs if people can't afford to live in the communities they're working in."MLive: <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=d5f48c871b&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Benson wants tax on short-term rentals, 100-day ban on private equity buying homes</a>[Danielle James, 3/2/2026]&nbsp;Benson, the Democratic frontrunner in the governor’s race, also shared new policies she said would free up housing stock.Those include establishing a statewide system to track and tax short-term rentals and a ban on the sale of homes to private equity firms for the first 100 days they’re on the market.It’s the second policy plan for Benson, after she released a “healthcare affordability agenda” in early January.&nbsp;[...]Lauren VanKeulen, CEO of AYA Youth Collective, also highlighted down-payment assistance as something that could make a huge difference for younger people looking to buy a home.&nbsp;[...]“It’s part of the holistic approach to ensuring you get a tax credit or other types of support for that down payment,” Benson said of her pitch, “and that enables people to ensure they can become homeowners, grow that wealth and also be an active part of the community.”Michigan Advance: <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=b0c6772c98&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Benson launches affordability-focused housing plan as advocates push for more state housing support</a>[Katherine Dailey, 3/2/2026]&nbsp;“In recent years, it’s clear to me that if we also need to keep our young people, our talented people here in Michigan, we have to ensure there are places for them to live,” Benson said during the roundtable. “I want to make it as easy to build into this state as it is to get your driver’s license.”Nancy Haynes, the executive director of the Fair Housing Center of West Michigan, emphasized the increased role of the state in housing policy as the federal government rolls back guidance and protections in fair housing law.&nbsp;[...]One key element of Benson’s plan is an expanded tax credit designed to help create opportunities for first-time homeowners.&nbsp;However, Benson also emphasized, the tax credit would support “not just first time homeowners who are trying to and assist them in trying to afford that down payment, but second time homeowners as well, as well as people moving up into the system and expanding their homes so that we can free up those first time homeowners opportunities.”[...][State Representative] Skaggs also contrasted Benson’s plan with other candidates in the gubernatorial race, seeming to specifically dig at former Detroit mayor Mike Duggan, who is running as an independent.&nbsp;“Most local leaders across the state will tell you the same thing, this is the defining challenge of our time,” he said. “Knowing the problem isn’t enough, we have to be willing to act on it, even when it’s hard, even when we’re not sure where the answers are going to be, but we have to work on them, and not every leader has been willing to do that, including a certain mayor who is in this governor’s race.”Bridge Michigan: <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=8b125d4cea&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Jocelyn Benson pitches housing plan with homebuyer tax credits, Airbnb tax</a>[Simon Schuster, 3/2/2026]&nbsp;Benson said she wants more homes built in Michigan and to boost affordable housing options for lower-income residents.&nbsp;“We need to eliminate a lot of red tape” around zoning, building requirements and inspections, she said.[...]Among other things, Benson said she wants to:<ul><li>Offer a tax credit for families who are “ready to purchase” homes “but struggling to save enough”</li><li>Expand the Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit, which currently provides property tax relief to homeowners or renters with total household resources of up to $71,500</li><li>Ban private equity and large investors from buying single-family homes in the first 100 days they’re on the market</li><li>Track short-term rentals like Airbnbs and tax them to “fund local issues,” while still allowing municipalities to regulate or ban those rentals</li><li>Require “tougher inspections and enforcement” for apartments to protect renters and punish “absentee landlords who neglect their properties”</li><li>Expand rental assistance for “families struggling with costs”</li></ul>[...]Benson said Whitmer’s [State of the State] proposal is “an important one” but added “we want to build on that” by “eliminating a lot of the long-standing certification processes” in order to get housing developments breaking ground more quickly.MIRS: <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=3b65fbe5b3&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Benson's Build Housing Agenda With 100-Day Private Investor Ban, Airbnb tax</a>[Staff, 3/2/2026]Speaking with 10 West Michigan housing and homeless leaders for a roundtable discussion, Benson also said she wants to expand tax credits to help new homebuyers, and speed up the building of new structures with state-level zoning reform.Benson said a nine-bill zoning reform package currently in the Legislature is a "great start," adding that zoning is a "big piece" of what's needed."It's about overall saying, 'What do we need to do to make sure, no matter where you want to live or work in Michigan, you can afford to buy a home in that community,'" Benson said.[…]Benson said the state needed to be doing more on housing affordability, because it was the basis of economic development.On the airwaves:<a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=1be18adcd5&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">WZZM</a> - Grand Rapids, MI: “Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson wants to lower housing costs. It's part of her campaign for Michigan governor. At a roundtable today she talked about her plan for affordability agenda which includes expanding a property tax credit for homebuyers and creating opportunities for first time home buyers. Benson says the state needs to be doing more to address the housing affordability crisis. … Benson's plan also focuses on streamlining the home building process so it's more affordable and faster to build a home here in Michigan.”&nbsp;<a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=403ec5a524&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">WOOD TV</a> - Grand Rapids, MI: “Gubernatorial candidate, Secretary of state Jocelyn Benson met with housing and homeless advocates today at a campaign stop in grand rapids. Benson, a democrat, says making housing more affordable, including for first-time home buyers, is one of her key campaign issues. … Benson says she supports not only cutting red tape, but state tax incentives to help potential homebuyers with down payments”&nbsp;###

Yesterday, Jocelyn Benson unveiled <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=f16d4ba0f7&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">her plan</a> to lower the cost of housing and build more homes across Michigan, so that every Michigander can afford a home in the community where they live and work.

ICYMI: Benson Is the Only Candidate with a Plan to Lower Housing Costs

Today, Michigan House Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri, State Senators Darrin Camilleri and Paul Wojno, and State Representative Laurie Pohutsky endorsed Jocelyn Benson for governor.&nbsp;“At a time when costs are skyrocketing, affordable housing and healthcare are out of reach and faith in our institutions are at a low, Michigan needs a battle tested leader like Jocelyn Benson who leads with calmness, clarity, and preparedness. Jocelyn is a fighter for Michiganders and the fighter we need in this moment,” said Michigan House Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri.&nbsp;“It’s an honor to have the support of Michigan House Democratic Leader Puri and more state lawmakers across Michigan. These leaders know firsthand what’s at stake: our kids’ education, access to affordable healthcare and housing, and the rights and freedoms of Michiganders,” said Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson. “Together, we’re building the coalition and team to win and fight for a Michigan we all can afford to live and thrive in, and where our rights and freedoms are protected.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Michigan House Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri, State Senators Darrin Camilleri and Paul Wojno, and State Rep. Laurie Pohutsky join a growing coalition of state and local leaders and labor organizations supporting Jocelyn Benson for Governor.Additional lawmakers on Team Benson include State Representatives: Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, Sean McCann, Rosemary Bayer, Sue Shink, Dayna Polehanki, Jeremy Moss, Phil Skaggs, Joey Andrews, Jason Morgan, Carrie Rheingans, Dylan Wegela, Jennifer Conlin, Kelly Breen, Natalie Price, Denise Mentzer, Julie Brixie, Betsy Coffia, Noah Arbit, Penelope Tsernoglou, Jimmie Wilson, Tonya Meyers Phillips, Emily Dievendorf, Samantha Steckloff, Stephen Wooden, Jason Hoskins, and Morgan Foreman.&nbsp;###

Today, Michigan House Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri, State Senators Darrin Camilleri and Paul Wojno, and State Representative Laurie Pohutsky endorsed Jocelyn Benson for governor.&nbsp;

Michigan House Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri, State Lawmakers Endorse Jocelyn Benson for Governor

<a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=d730dc4035&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">West Michigan Resident</a>: “Jocelyn’s got real solutions.”&nbsp;Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson is the only candidate for governor with a <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=c6c8a64f30&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">plan</a> to lower healthcare costs and voters are taking notice. It’s clear that Benson’s plan is resonating with voters, especially as other candidates continue to support higher healthcare costs and massive cuts to Medicaid. Meanwhile, Benson has been traveling the state, listening to Michiganders’ stories and sharing her healthcare affordability plan.&nbsp;Benson’s <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=28562c29b7&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">plan</a> will drive down the cost of premiums and prescription drugs, eliminate surprise billing, expand access to care across the state, especially in rural and underserved areas, and grow our healthcare workforce to meet demand across the state.&nbsp; In case you missed it…&nbsp;Manistee News: <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=a3fe8bc598&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Lampinen: Rural west Michigan faces health care gaps; Benson's plan offers hope</a>[Eric Lampinen, 3/8/2026]&nbsp;Where we live, we have to travel an hour to get to many specialist doctor’s offices and services. Working families need to take time from work, find someone to watch kids, and spend more on gas just to get to a health care provider.Like too many families in west Michigan, we live in a near healthcare desert with greatly reduced services at local hospitals and only two birthing centers between Muskegon and Benzie county.[...]I’m grateful to see Jocelyn Benson roll out a plan that tackles these things. No one else has, even though it’s one of our most important issues right now.[...]Jocelyn has had practice overhauling our Secretary of State infrastructure and making it work for everyone. We need that experience to revamp our healthcare system.From bringing mobile health centers to rural communities, to incentivizing medical professionals to build their life in high-need communities, Jocelyn’s got real solutions.I know that as governor, Benson will deliver and make our healthcare system work. That’s why I’m voting for her come November.###

Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson is the only candidate for governor with a <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=c6c8a64f30&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">plan</a> to lower healthcare costs and voters are taking notice. It’s clear that Benson’s plan is resonating with voters, especially as other candidates continue to support higher healthcare costs and massive cuts to Medicaid.

MANISTEE NEWS: “Benson’s [Healthcare Affordability] plan offers hope”

Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson raised another $1 million from thousands of supporters across Michigan to bring her total 2025 fundraising haul to $5.8 million – once again shattering records in Michigan’s open governor’s race.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jocelyn received over 40,000 contributions in 2025 representing every county in Michigan. With 93% of contributions $100 or less, donations from all 83 counties in Michigan, and no corporate PAC money, her grassroots support signals a campaign ready to win.&nbsp;“Michiganders are rallying behind Jocelyn Benson to fight for the future of our state,” said Benson campaign manager Nikki Goldschein. “She’s the only candidate in this race who won’t bend the knee to anyone, no matter how powerful they are, who&nbsp; threatens the rights and freedoms of our citizens. Michiganders are looking for their next governor to be someone who understands the economic struggles people are facing and has a plan to do something about it. That’s why they’re investing in Jocelyn Benson.”&nbsp;The fundraising announcement comes as Jocelyn is now in <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=27c9f94b8d&amp;e=87c89566cd" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">“pole position”</a> to be the Democratic nominee for Michigan governor with most “democratic enthusiasm and money raised.” In January, Jocelyn <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=e45ad819c2&amp;e=87c89566cd" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">unveiled</a> her agenda to fix Michigan's broken health care system through a plan focused on affordability, accessibility, and fairness.&nbsp;Since the last fundraising report, Jocelyn has earned endorsements from both leaders in the legislature – Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks and House Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri – who join 28 other state lawmakers in their endorsements, former Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence, Detroit Rev. Horace Sheffield, grassroots leaders like Mothering Justice’s Danielle Atkinson, and Metro Detroit Mayors.Jocelyn Benson has $3.5 million cash on hand.&nbsp;###

Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson raised another $1 million from thousands of supporters across Michigan to bring her total 2025 fundraising haul to $5.8 million – once again shattering records in Michigan’s open governor’s race.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Benson for Governor Raised Nearly $6 Million in 2025, Outraising Entire Field

Today, End Citizens United (ECU) endorsed Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for Michigan Governor.&nbsp;“Secretary Benson has consistently demonstrated the courage and commitment needed to move Michigan forward in these unprecedented times,” said End Citizens United President Tiffany Muller. “She is a proven reformer, a fierce defender of our rights and freedoms, and a solutions-driven leader who puts people above politics. Whether she’s protecting the voices and votes of Michigan families, creating a fair economy, or fighting back against special interests, Secretary Benson has the vision and experience to deliver results. We’re thrilled to endorse her campaign and we look forward to helping her win.”“I’m honored to have the support of End Citizens United, a group that’s committed to ensuring the voices and votes of everyday Michiganders are not drowned out by special interests and billionaires,” said Secretary of State Benson. “In this post-Citizens United world that we live in, it’s more important than ever to fight against wealthy special interests to shape government so that it works for all Michigan families, not just those who can buy access and influence.”Under Secretary Benson’s leadership, Michigan has emerged as a national model for election security, transparency, and accessibility. As Secretary of State, Benson has championed critical reforms in Michigan, like establishing an independent redistricting commission, expanding access to the ballot box through no-excuse absentee voting, same-day registration, and automatic and online voter registration. These reforms were widely popular in Michigan, passing with the support of two-thirds of Michigan voters. In March 2021, Benson and ECU President Tiffany Muller <a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.DuO4W433tnUXySRTpZv0tBqkNinf6091MapbskklRvHdWoNsdbbcWhFhx56isIV9dKUTUnCHfEoF0UbNLl8gBvb001GXTQfqf-2BTNSpYZ8sIHSqcQ-2BghmFZoJLCMXS2s84dSq5izDyYM47jUiA-2FgFZYhcCW4EJd3NZaWRrAYtGAe-2Bmt3vpIm-2BodqEh36uTmeT5W7OQXTnIcWkqi68KTST8W0Sl-2BLXyPYuyslrrxfpQNE-3D_dyk_Yue17g79b8BE-2BH-2Bg-2BEvtpeQtA38VX-2BBPuvaNLFDD4q10HzKSLRvx7bQzOe3F3noQ4h2kdyMpFBHJcW0bpBhegUMGGoa3W4q4xzeEH6wP7ZNjchmBZlUCM7itur-2FTP0rMyqtHcJT-2Fl6-2BEjXMaTO0Swi2j4hI3XK6xpDiUAegtXGHH0e9Ky-2BKxj-2BIYBnusw3toNba9uBcpeQ9coIrwL-2BMSb5xuYEyrfT0cghwXGQZQWwOpELEBY-2Fi05Kniu-2BLxre5B-2BonClq-2BpzMsh5IYPwID-2F-2BoxCKyTzRQvN4rgO9DcB4XIyUpl6J3Z5yvFFaexlj-2Bd-2FKHJaGjjTvm3nahf6-2F-2BzNFw9HCMH612-2BgyXN459J-2BC7-2Fa8ul-2BxUWgbIm-2FjCAo2rpD">testified in front of the Senate Rules Committee</a>, emphasizing the necessity of passing the For the People Act (H.R.1/S.1). Benson noted in her testimony that the reforms she made in Michigan were similar to those in the For the People Act. She highlighted that they worked well in increasing voter turnout and had broad support from Michiganders of both political parties.ECU is a grassroots campaign finance grassroots organization dedicated to rooting out corruption and protecting voting rights. The group has more than 4 million members nationwide.

Today, End Citizens United (ECU) endorsed Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for Michigan Governor.&nbsp;“Secretary Benson has consistently demonstrated the courage and commitment needed to move Michigan forward in these unprecedented times,” said End Citizens United...

End Citizens United Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor

Jocelyn Benson has grown her war chest to $1.9 million since launching her campaign for Governor. With over 14,000 individual contributions and an average donation of $47 since the campaign’s January 22 launch, Secretary Benson’s vision of making Michigan the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home continues to resonate.“If we want Michigan to be the best, we need a governor who will save Michiganders’ time and money, ensure government works for the people, and will stand up to anyone who threatens our rights and freedoms,” said Benson Campaign Manager Nikki Goldschein. “Jocelyn is that leader, and the enthusiasm and support for her campaign is proof that she has what it takes to make that vision a reality for all Michiganders.”&nbsp;In addition, a <a href="https://mirs-uploads.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/1818-Freq%20Target%20Insyght%20Statewide%2003072025.pdf">new poll</a> from Target Insyght shows Jocelyn is the overwhelming favorite in the Democratic primary and is far ahead of the Republican and Independent candidates for the November 2026 general election.Jocelyn has also earned <a href="https://jocelynbenson.com/endorsements/">endorsements</a> from state legislators across the state, Mayor of the second largest city in Michigan David LaGrand, and EMILYs List, the nation’s largest organization dedicated to electing more pro-choice Democratic women to office. This strong momentum shows Michiganders believe in Jocelyn’s vision and leadership.&nbsp;

Jocelyn Benson has grown her war chest to $1.9 million since launching her campaign for Governor. With over 14,000 individual contributions and an average donation of $47 since the campaign’s January 22 launch, Secretary Benson’s vision...

Benson for Governor Has Nearly $2 Million War Chest as New Poll Confirms Benson is the Frontrunner in 2026

Benson: “The job in this moment [is] to protect and grow our economy, protect the safety of our communities […] and use every tool available to us in doing so.”During a new interview on CBS’s <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=01a9453f01&amp;e=57368f8389" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Takeout</a>, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson discussed her work protecting the safety and security of Michigan’s elections, even amidst threats of violence against herself and her family.Benson shared emotional stories of how her husband and young son persevered through threats, her experience as a military spouse and how it guides her leadership, and how marathon running shapes her work ethic.&nbsp;In case you missed it …<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9b12638-e867-4422-b5c9-3bbe3a93dc72/65a41bd9-f539-4755-a46b-9d157ccca4b1/65a41bd9-f539-4755-a46b-9d157ccca4b1.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1158%2C708&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="base"><a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=0a602986c8&amp;e=57368f8389" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">WATCH</a>Key moments:&nbsp;On persevering amidst violent threats:&nbsp;Benson: [...] we were decorating the Christmas tree when armed protesters showed up at our house in December of 2020 because they had been fed lies about the election. [...] And in the moments that have happened since, swatting attempts, bomb threats, there's always a feeling of apprehension and fear because you just don't know what could happen in those moments. But that fear then transforms in me into a greater boldness of doing this work because I know what's at stake.On how being a military spouse grounds her family:&nbsp;Benson: [...] That's a real lived experience for us where I had to sit at home alone [and] think about my husband being in the battlefield targeted with machine guns from you know foreign militaries, from the Taliban and others. [...] We understand often and he has lived it what it means to actually defend American democracy at home and overseas. [...]&nbsp;I think we've tried to live that throughout our life, even from, you know, when I started my career investigating white supremacist organizations undercover at the age of 20 to his service in the military to now, all of it has been trying to just do right by those who've come before us, frankly, who've similarly sacrificed great things so that we could live in a country where anyone could go from poverty to prosperity.Why she’s running for governor:Benson: [...] We can emerge out of this time with a healthier and more robust economy and democracy than ever before. That's my goal to get us to a better place. It does mean marching towards and through the fire, as we talk about it, in order to get there. [...]I'll&nbsp; work with anyone to improve the lives of Michigan citizens, but I'll also stand up to anyone in furtherance of truth and the law no matter how wealthy or how powerful they may be in order to protect the will of the people, the safety of our residents, our rights, our freedoms, our economy, and all the rest.###

During a new interview on CBS’s <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=01a9453f01&amp;e=57368f8389" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Takeout</a>, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson discussed her work protecting the safety and security of Michigan’s elections, even amidst threats of violence against herself and her family.

WATCH: Benson Discusses Her Fight for Safe, Secure Elections Even in the Face of Threats

Today, South West Michigan leaders including the Mayor of St. Joseph, school board members, and the president of the Michigan Alliance for Retired Americans endorsed Jocelyn Benson for Governor. These leaders are joining Benson’s team because they know she will work with anyone to get things done for the farmers, teachers, students, and families that call this area of Michigan home.&nbsp;“Here in St. Joseph, we know the value of community — and we need a governor who understands that strong communities don’t happen by accident,” said St. Joseph Mayor Brook Thomas. “They’re built by leaders who show up, listen to local families and small businesses, and fight for the resources we need to thrive. Jocelyn Benson has done that time and again. She understands the pressures people are feeling — from the rising cost of housing and groceries to the strain on working parents and seniors just trying to make ends meet. She’s shown that she’ll work with anyone, across party lines, to support communities like ours. That’s why I’m proud to endorse her for governor. Southwest Michigan can count on Jocelyn Benson to be a true partner and an advocate for every family who calls this region home.”“As a retired UAW worker and now a member of our town council, I’ve spent my life fighting for working people and standing up for our seniors — and that’s why I’m proud to support Jocelyn Benson for governor,” said Jim Pedersen, Cassapaloosis resident and President of the Michigan Alliance for Retired Americans. “Every day I hear from seniors who are being impacted by rising costs: higher utility bills, prescription drug prices that keep climbing, and housing that are&nbsp; getting harder to afford on a fixed income. They deserve a governor who understands their struggles and has the backbone to do something about it. I trust Jocelyn to put seniors, working families, and small towns at the center of her agenda.”"I've known Jocelyn since her very first race back in 2010, and I've watched her fight for communities like ours ever since. Now, serving on the Plainwell School Board, I see firsthand the challenges our schools are facing. We're stretching every dollar while trying to keep class sizes manageable, maintain programs that prepare our kids for the future, and support teachers who are already paying out of pocket for classroom supplies. Our students deserve better, and so do the educators who show up for them every day,” said Plainwell School Board member Jill Dunham. “Jocelyn Benson understands that strong public schools are essential to small communities. She's committed to making sure districts like Plainwell get the resources we need, that our teachers are supported, and that every student has access to a quality education. I've seen her dedication for over a decade, and that's why I'm supporting her for governor. I'm Team Benson all the way!"“From the miles of sandy shoreline to the U-pick farms that make this region a powerhouse for Michigan’s blueberry, peach, and apple growers, Southwest Michigan is vibrant — and it deserves a partner in Lansing who will help it thrive," said Jocelyn Benson. "As governor I’ll make sure our rural communities are front and center. And I will work with these local leaders to make life more affordable, protect our water, and build a future where every Southwest Michigander can succeed.”The full list of endorsements include:&nbsp;Benton Harbor School Board President Dashauna RobinsonSt. Joseph Mayor Brook ThomasFormer St. Joseph Mayor Laura Goos&nbsp;Michigan Alliance for Retired Americans President Jim PedersonPlainwell School Board member Jill Dunham&nbsp;Former Allegan County Judge Bill BaillaregeonNew Buffalo Township Trustee Howard MalesThese Southwest Michigan leaders&nbsp; join a growing coalition of supporters across the state for Jocelyn's campaign for governor. She has received labor endorsements from Michigan Laborers Council, a majority of the Michigan Teamsters Locals, UFCW Locals 876 and 951 in Southfield and Grand Rapids, and the Association of Flight Attendants - CWA as well as national organizations including EMILYs List and End Citizen United. She also has the support of over 20 state legislators, including State Rep. Joey Andrews who represents Southwest Michigan,&nbsp; and nearly two dozen municipal leaders from across Michigan including the mayors of Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Cadillac, Highland Park, Oak Park, Pleasant Ridge, and Berkeley.

Today, South West Michigan leaders including the Mayor of St. Joseph, school board members, and the president of the Michigan Alliance for Retired Americans endorsed Jocelyn Benson for Governor. These...

Southwest Michigan Leaders Endorse Jocelyn Benson for Governor

Today, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy endorsed Jocelyn Benson for Governor of Michigan.&nbsp;“I’m incredibly grateful for the support of Prosecutor Worthy in this campaign,” said Jocelyn Benson. “She is the epitome of legal courage and integrity when it comes to standing up for what’s right and making sure the people of Wayne County are safe and protected. I’ve had the honor of knowing and working with her for years and look forward to continuing our partnership when I become governor to ensure everyone in Michigan’s can have the economic freedom to thrive and their rights are protected.”&nbsp;“I’m proud to endorse Jocelyn Benson to be the next Governor of Michigan. Jocelyn has the experience, backbone, and moral courage we need at this moment. She came to Detroit to make a difference as a civil rights advocate clerking for Judge Damon Keith, then transformed Wayne State Law School, leading the school from the bottom tier to the top 50. Michiganders need a governor who will be a true partner to the people,” said Prosecutor Worthy. “We’ve seen what happens when leaders prioritize political survival or corporate interests over community needs. Jocelyn won’t play it safe. She’ll go toe-to-toe with bullies who threaten our hard earned rights and stand up for working families in Wayne County and across Michigan. Her vision puts people first, especially those who’ve been ignored or left behind for too long. Jocelyn has what it takes to win, and more importantly, she has what it takes to govern with moral courage and integrity.”Kym Worthy is the first Black woman to hold the Wayne County Prosecutor’s office. Worthy has shown political courage and integrity throughout her career and looks forward to working with Jocelyn Benson when she is elected governor.&nbsp;Worthy’s endorsement joins 17 lawmakers, including Detroit State Rep. Tonya Meyers Phillips, UFCW Local 876, and national organizations including EMILYs List and End Citizens United.&nbsp;

oday, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy endorsed Jocelyn Benson for Governor of Michigan.&nbsp; “I’m incredibly grateful for the support of Prosecutor Worthy in this campaign,” said Jocelyn Benson. “She is the epitome of legal courage...

Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor

Today, after all candidates filed Benson Campaign Manager Nikki Goldschein released the following statement:&nbsp;“Today’s fundraising reports make clear that Jocelyn Benson is the strongest candidate to win the Democratic primary for Governor and take on any candidate — Republican or Independent — in November 2026. I’m proud this campaign is fueled by the people –&nbsp; over 27,000 individuals from every one of Michigan’s 83 counties – who believe in Jocelyn’s vision for making Michigan a place where everyone can afford to live and thrive, not by wealthy corporate executives and special interest groups. We enter this next phase of the election cycle with more funds raised and more cash on hand than any other candidate for governor. And we are just getting warmed up.”Read more below:&nbsp;Crain’s Detroit: <a href="https://www.crainsdetroit.com/politics-policy/jocelyn-benson-raises-record-35m-governor-run">Benson raises record $3.5M for governor run, doubles combined totals for other Democrats</a>[Dave Eggert, 7/24/2025]&nbsp;“I’m really proud of that. But what I’m most proud of is what is represents — that I didn’t get to this number by taking corporate PAC (political action committee) donations. I didn’t get to this number by only getting money from rich billionaires from around the country and from around the state of Michigan,” the second-term secretary of state said in a news conference at Teamsters Local 243, later saying: “What that shows to me is that we’ve got not only the resources to get on the ballot and to make this case to people all throughout Michigan, but that we’ve got people behind us helping us get those resources and in a historic way.”[…]State Rep. Julie Brixie, a Benson supporter, said Benson “is the strongest Democrat in this race, and it’s not even close.”The Hill: <a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/5416707-benson-fundraising-gubernatorial-campaign/amp/">Benson raises more than $3.5M in Michigan governor campaign</a>[Julia Manchester, 7/24/2025]&nbsp;The fundraising haul is more than double the $1.5 million Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) raised at this point in 2017 after announcing her first gubernatorial bid in January of that year.&nbsp;The haul also puts Benson ahead of her opponents in the state’s Democratic gubernatorial primary: Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II’s campaign said he raised more than $750,000, while former Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson said his campaign has raised more than $1 million. Gilchrist jumped into the primary in March, and Swanson announced his bid in February.Michigan Advance: <a href="https://michiganadvance.com/2025/07/24/benson-raises-massive-3-5m-gubernatorial-war-chest-since-launching-campaign/">Benson raises massive $3.5M gubernatorial war chest since launching campaign</a>[Ben Solis, 7/24/2025]&nbsp;Benson was joined Thursday by Democratic state officials including Rep. Julie Brixie of Okemos, Rep. Jimmie Wilson Jr. of Ypsilanti and Rep. Joey Andrews of St. Joseph.Brixie said Benson’s work has resonated with Michiganders in all areas of the state and that she is the only Democrat in the race who can win the general election, which at present is a three-way race between the eventual Democratic and Republican nominees and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, a former Democrat who is running as an independent.“She outraised both of her Democratic primary opponents combined, and not even by a little,” Brixie said. “She’s doubled them. That kind of grassroots, institutional support doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when the candidate is serious, prepared and well respected all across Michigan.”

Today, after all candidates filed Benson Campaign Manager Nikki Goldschein released the following statement:&nbsp; “Today’s fundraising reports make clear that Jocelyn Benson is the strongest candidate to win the Democratic primary for Governor and take on

ICYMI: Benson Has Strongest Fundraising Haul of the Field, Most Cash on Hand

Today, the Michigan Democratic Party Black Caucus has proudly endorsed Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for Governor of Michigan. “In conversations with Caucus leadership, Secretary Benson has shown a clear focus on closing the racial wealth gap and creating pathways that help families move from poverty to prosperity. Her leadership reflects both competence and compassion, grounded in a deep care for the people of Michigan,” said Black Caucus Chair Keith Williams. “The Michigan Democratic Party Black Caucus believes Jocelyn Benson is the right leader to move Michigan forward and build a more just, inclusive, society.” “I’m deeply honored to earn the support of the Michigan Democratic Party’s Black Caucus,” said Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson. “This endorsement reflects our shared commitment to justice, opportunity, and building a coalition that truly lifts every voice. It’s important to me personally that every Michigander knows they are seen, heard, and empowered as a part of our growing coalition.With the Black Caucus as a partner, our campaign is ready to continue delivering real solutions for Michiganders in every corner of our state to make Michigan a place anyone can afford to live and thrive.”&nbsp; The mission of the Michigan Democratic Party Black Caucus is to promote the political and economic interests of African Americans while supporting Democratic leadership that advances equity and opportunity. Secretary Benson has consistently demonstrated her commitment to these values by protecting voting rights, strengthening democracy, and ensuring every Michigan resident can fully participate in the American Dream.

Today, the Michigan Democratic Party Black Caucus has proudly endorsed Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for Governor of Michigan.

Michigan Democratic Party Black Caucus Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor

“I will work tirelessly every day to ensure that every Michigander knows, no matter what party they belong to, no matter where they live, that I work for them.”Yesterday, gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson rallied close to 150 supporters and outlined her vision for Michigan’s future at a campaign event marking one year until the 2026 election. Benson emphasized her commitment to fixing broken systems and building an economy that works for everyday Michiganders, not just the wealthy and powerful.“Right now in Michigan, people are struggling. Struggling to buy a home. Struggling to find jobs in their chosen field. Worried about whether their kids are getting a good education. Worried that they are one catastrophic illness away from bankruptcy,” said Benson. “But you know who can fight back against all of that – and who can fight FOR a Michigan that works for us all? We can.”Benson framed the 2026 election as a fundamental choice about who Michigan works for, pledging to prioritize the people over corporate interests. She outlined a comprehensive agenda focused on affordability, transparency, and economic opportunity.Key parts of her plan that will be rolled out over the next few months include:&nbsp;<ul><li>Ending political corruption by signing into law the strongest transparency and ethics laws in the country, eliminating dark money and undisclosed corporate influence.</li><li>Expanding economic opportunity through well-paying union jobs and training programs, ensuring quality affordable healthcare for all, and expanding programs like RX Kids to ensure no child lives in poverty.</li><li>Making childcare free for working families, because as she emphasized, “you shouldn’t have to choose between taking care of your kid and paying your electric bill.”</li><li>Investing in world-class public education with real accountability, meaningful support for educators, expanded arts curriculum, and wraparound services for students to prepare Michigan’s kids for the jobs of tomorrow.</li></ul>Benson continued, “As governor I will work with anyone, anytime, anywhere to get this done. But I will have no patience – none – for politicians who will put their wealthy funders ahead of you. Because the next governor of Michigan must be prepared to build an economy that invests in people while also standing up – to anyone, no matter how wealthy or powerful – who would stand in the way of our citizens and their rights, their freedom, and our democracy.”The event comes on the heels of historic wins for women governors across the country, with two Democratic women elected governor in New Jersey and Virginia this week, and Mary Sheffield elected as Detroit’s first Black woman mayor.“I don’t know about you, but I think the year of the women democratic governor begins now,” Benson told supporters, calling on them to join her campaign over the next year to show the nation what Michigan stands for: “A democracy where every vote counts and every voice is heard. A Michigan that works for people. Where life is affordable. Where justice prevails.”

“I will work tirelessly every day to ensure that every Michigander knows, no matter what party they belong to, no matter where they live, that I work for them.” Yesterday, gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson rallied close...

Jocelyn Benson Touts Campaign Milestones, Lays Out Vision for Michigan at “One Year Out” Campaign Event

On the heels of Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson’s gubernatorial kick-off, Democratic state lawmakers endorsed Secretary Benson for Governor.Her endorsers include Democratic members of the legislature from across Michigan.“I am incredibly honored to have the trust and support of Michiganders across our state on Day One of this campaign for Governor,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “I’m taking on this fight to make Michigan the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home. These lawmakers know it’s time for a more accountable and transparent government that will come together to deliver affordable housing, innovative and people-driven economic opportunity, and continue to protect our freedoms and rights. That’s what I will do as Governor.”“Michiganders deserve a Governor who always has our backs, who sides with the little guy over the powerful, and who doesn’t back down from necessary fights. That’s why I am proud to endorse Jocelyn Benson for Governor,” said State Rep. Betsy Coffia. “For me, this is personal. I grew up in a rural northern Michigan working class home where we worked hard but struggled to access healthcare and other basics. I’m for Jocelyn because she’s proven to me that she’s a leader who will fight for families like mine to thrive. This is a critical time for Michigan. We need a leader who will fight for Michiganders against any opponent – from corporate billions to bad actors in Washington. Jocelyn Benson is that leader.”“It’s my honor to endorse Secretary Benson to be the next Governor of Michigan. She has all of the attributes that a great Governor needs: toughness, bravery, and smarts,” said State Rep. Phil Skaggs. “As a state legislator, I’ve worked with her on transparency issues, and I know firsthand that she is prepared to take on the biggest challenges working families in Michigan are facing.”“I’m excited to see my friend Jocelyn Benson running for Governor of Michigan! She has spent her life working to make sure every voice is heard and that the government works for everyone,” said State Rep. Jason Morgan. “I’m proud to endorse her to lead our great state. As someone who had the honor of working for her, I’ve seen her work through every part of the Department of State to make government work better while defending our democracy from unprecedented attacks and working to shine a bright light on dark money in politics. She is tough, hardworking, passionate, and cares about making life better for the working class in Michigan.”Full list of Day One endorsements:<ul><li>Rep. Phil Skaggs (Grand Rapids)</li><li>Rep. Joey Andrews (Southwest Michigan)</li><li>Rep. Jason Morgan (Ann Arbor)</li><li>Rep. Jimmie Wilson (Ypsilanti)</li><li>Rep. Carrie Rhenigans (Ann Arbor)</li><li>Rep. Julie Brixie (Lansing)</li><li>Rep. Betsey Coffia (Traverse City)</li><li>Rep. Dylan Wegala (South West Wayne County)</li><li>Rep. Jennifer Conlin (Washtenaw County)</li><li>Rep. Kelly Breen (West Oakland County)</li><li>Rep. Penelope Tsernoglou (Lansing)</li><li>Rep. Natalie Price (Oakland County)</li><li>Sen. Sean McCann (Kalamazoo)</li><li>Rep. Denise Mentzer (Mt. Clemens)</li><li>Rep. Noah Arbit (West Bloomfield)</li><li>Former Rep. Adam Zemke (Washtenaw County)</li><li>Former Congressman and 2014 Dem. Gubernatorial candidate Mark Schauer (Howell)</li></ul>This group of lawmakers from across the state are ready to work with Jocelyn to get things done for their communities and elect a governor who is accountable to all Michiganders.

On the heels of Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson’s gubernatorial kick-off, Democratic state lawmakers endorsed Secretary Benson for Governor. Her endorsers include Democratic members of the legislature from across Michigan. “I am incredibly honored...

Michigan State Lawmakers Endorse Jocelyn Benson for Governor

Chalkbeat Detroit: They [MEA members] heartily applauded as Benson, a former teacher whose parents were also teachers, was introduced.Last week, during the Michigan Education Association gubernatorial forum, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson shared her plans to make Michigan’s public schools the best in the country. Her personal story as a former educator, the daughter of special education teachers, and a mom – and her commitment to always standing up to protect Michiganders’ rights and freedoms – resonated with MEA attendees in the audience.&nbsp;READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=081fa03707&amp;e=57368f8389" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Chalkbeat Detroit</a>:They [MEA members] heartily applauded as Benson, a former teacher whose parents were also teachers, was introduced.[...]Benson replied that she would push to ensure the average starting salary is at least $60,000, about $20,000 more than the average starting salary in the state. She said it’s a sign of respect for the important work educators do daily.“You will have a voice … and I will reflect my commitment to that by ensuring that your compensation reflects the respect, the professional respect, that you all have earned. To me, that is a critical component of attracting and retaining talented people,” Benson said.[...]Among Benson’s priorities: Ensuring equitable funding for schools, ensuring educators have the “compensation and wraparound services and support needed to do their job, and investing in postsecondary support.&nbsp;<a href="https://michiganadvance.com/2026/02/06/gubernatorial-candidates-emphasize-k-12-funding-disagree-on-response-to-ice-in-schools-at-mea-forum/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michigan Advance</a>:&nbsp;&nbsp;Throughout the panel, Benson referenced her experience growing up as the child of two special education teachers, as well as her time as the dean of the Wayne State University Law School, as driving her focus on education. But when discussing how she would respond to ICE enforcement in schools in Michigan, she called on her time as the Secretary of State to say that she has been “unafraid to stand up to any bully.”“The next governor of Michigan must demonstrate that they will live the moral courage that I have as secretary of state to protect the young people, the educators, every resident of every community in the state, no matter what type of tactic the bully in the White House tries to bring to our communities,” she said.<a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=ca35018796&amp;e=57368f8389" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Detroit News</a>:&nbsp;During the forum, Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said Michigan needs an "equitable education funding model." Afterward, she told reporters the current funding system that's based around a flat per-pupil allocation for all schools is "broken.""The fact that we have defunded our schools at a higher rate than any other state for three decades now and the small amount of work that Democrats have done recently to restore some of that funding is far from what's needed to actually get to where we need to be to have the excellent schools we want," Benson of Detroit said.<a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=450a72f1c0&amp;e=57368f8389" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michigan Public Radio</a>:&nbsp;Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said the state should stop relying on a per-student funding model.“Different needs meet different communities. And, as I’ve talked to educators around the state, the number one thing that keeps coming up is just that, that an X amount of money for a student in Muskegon is not going to be the same as X amount of money or the same amount of money for a student in Iron River. The needs are different. The cost model needs to be different,” Benson told reporters after the event.###

Last week, during the Michigan Education Association gubernatorial forum, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson shared her plans to make Michigan’s public schools the best in the country. Her personal story as a former educator, the daughter of special education teachers, and a mom – and her commitment to always standing up to protect Michiganders’ rights and freedoms – resonated with MEA attendees in the audience.

ICYMI: Benson Impresses at Michigan Education Association Forum

Today, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 26, the West Michigan Stagehands Union, endorsed Jocelyn Benson as the next Governor of Michigan. IATSE Local 26 praised Benson’s track record of standing up to anyone, including the President, to deliver for Michiganders and her laser focus on lowering costs and raising wages.&nbsp;“After Republicans attacked our industry and eliminated film jobs in 2015 and Trump’s repeated attacks on unions, we need a governor who will stand up to anyone, including the President, to deliver for Michiganders. Secretary Benson has a proven record of defending our workers and our state, and is exactly the type of leadership we need today,” said Tom Burke, President of IATSE Local 26. “She’ll be a governor who gives workers a real seat at the table, fights to bring back film industry jobs, and lowers costs across the state. We are proud to endorse her as the next Governor of Michigan and look forward to working with her to raise wages and stand up for workers.”&nbsp;“I’m honored to have the support of IATSE Local 26 and their hundreds of workers in West Michigan,” said Jocelyn Benson. “This campaign is about standing up for Michiganders who power our state’s economy and making sure they can afford to live in Michigan and thrive. Where they have access to high-paying jobs, can afford to raise a family, buy a home, and retire with dignity. And where they always have a seat at the table in a Benson administration.”&nbsp;IATSE Local 26 is the latest to join a growing coalition of state and local leaders, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations supporting Benson to be our next governor. They join the board coalition of mayors, city leaders, educators, and labor organizations in recognizing Benson’s track record of delivering for Michiganders and standing up to anyone who threatens our safety, rights, and freedom and leadership make her the best candidate for governor. She also has the support of state and national organizations including the Michigan Association of Justice, Michigan Democratic Party’s Black Caucus, EMILYs List, and End Citizen United, among others. You can find a full list of endorsements, <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=fc276520f0&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.###

Today, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 26, the West Michigan Stagehands Union, endorsed Jocelyn Benson as the next Governor of Michigan. IATSE Local 26 praised Benson’s track record of standing up to anyone, including the President, to deliver for Michiganders and her laser focus on lowering costs and raising wages.&nbsp;

West Michigan Stagehands Union (IATSE 26) Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor

Today, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson discussed her plan to lower the cost of housing for Michigan families with former Detroit City Council President Saunteel Jenkins, local leaders, housing advocates, and residents. She heard stories about the hoops families have to jump through to find affordable housing, sacrifices parents have to make to pay the bills, and what the state can do better to help. Benson is the only candidate for governor who has released a comprehensive plan to drive down the cost of housing and has centered her campaign around building a more affordable Michigan.&nbsp;Jocelyn’s plan will expand housing production statewide through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, cut red tape, and speed up permitting so homes can be built faster, create a statewide housing data system to show where the needs are, strengthen renter protections, and give communities more control over short-term rentals – all while partnering with local leaders to give residents the access to housing they need.&nbsp;“Decades ago, I moved to Detroit and learned just how important it is to be able to buy a home in this city and to be able to live here and raise your family here right now. Today, we are seeing a housing shortage creating problems. We see reckless tariffs driving up costs on everything, and I've seen it in my neighborhood here in Detroit, with not only rents rising, but property taxes rising as well, and a lot of Detroiters being pushed out of their homes. So as governor, I'm going to tackle this head on,” said Secretary Benson during the roundtable. “First, we're going to streamline housing so that we are building more homes in the state because it should be as easy and efficient to get a housing permit as it is to renew your driver's license. Right now, we're in a housing crisis and we're permitting less housing to be built. I am committed to flipping that. ”&nbsp;“I want to thank our Secretary of State and&nbsp; hopefully soon to be governor, Jocelyn Benson, for understanding that housing is a priority all over the state of Michigan and especially here in the city of Detroit. I think what we need in our next governor is somebody who understands, and is willing to talk to the people on the front lines doing the work, to make sure that the priorities that you're setting and the steps you're taking are really the ones that we need as residents. Our Secretary of State lives in Detroit, she's chosen to be here and work here and live here, it’s not just talk from her,” said former City Council President Saunteel Jenkins.&nbsp; As governor, Jocelyn Benson’s housing plan will:<ul><li>Make it easier to build homes faster from the local level to the state level by streamlining the entire process so builders spend weeks on approvals instead of waiting months for each agency to sign off, saving money that can go toward building more affordable homes and addressing regional and rural housing shortages.</li><li>Create opportunities for first-time home buyers with an expanded tax credit for families who are ready to purchase but struggling to save enough — while making sure we’re building enough new homes so this actually lowers costs instead of just pushing prices higher.</li><li>Create a statewide housing data system that shows us exactly where Michigan needs more housing, what it costs, and whether we’re making progress. By working voluntarily with municipal governments, permitting and building systems will align with community needs.</li><li>Give communities control over vacation rentals and create a statewide system to track short-term rentals and tax them to fund local services and Michigan tourism, while letting towns set their own rules about how many are allowed in residential neighborhoods.</li><li>⁨Stop international corporations from pricing Michiganders out of their neighborhood by banning the sale of homes to private equity firms and institutional investors for the first 100 days they are on the market.</li><li>Expand and modernize the Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit to reflect today’s housing costs and inflation, which will raise income eligibility limits and adjust benefit levels so more working families, seniors, and fixed-income homeowners can qualify and keep up with rising property tax bills.</li><li>Protect renters without discouraging new apartments by cracking down on out of state and absentee landlords who neglect their properties through tougher inspections and enforcement, expand rental assistance for families struggling with costs, and protect tenants from retaliation—while keeping rules fair so developers can still build the affordable apartments Michigan desperately needs.</li></ul>###

Today, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson discussed her plan to lower the cost of housing for Michigan families with former Detroit City Council President Saunteel Jenkins, local leaders, housing advocates, and residents.

In Detroit, Benson, Saunteel Jenkins, and Local Leaders Discuss Housing Affordability Crisis

“Just like I reformed our Secretary of State offices, I know how to take on big issues in education and get things done.”Yesterday, gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson previewed her comprehensive plan to bring Michigan’s public education system into the top 10 nationwide during a roundtable in Saginaw. She was joined by Michigan Board of Education President Dr. Pam Pugh, Saginaw Public Schools Superintendent Ramont Roberts, Saginaw Public Schools Board President Dr. Charles Coleman, as well as local parents and teachers.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9b12638-e867-4422-b5c9-3bbe3a93dc72/f2f08569-39de-4517-928a-f95565d5e18d/f2f08569-39de-4517-928a-f95565d5e18d.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1600%2C1124&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="base">“I’m here as a mom of an eight year old little boy who, in 10 years, is going to be 18, and everything we do over the next 10 years is going to define his childhood, and it’s going to define the childhood of kids Saginaw and Flint all across the state and their futures, and whether they have a future they can build here in Michigan, that they can thrive in Michigan. So I come here with a sense of urgency, and to emphasize that every day, every year, that problems go unsolved and issues go unmet for kids in our communities, is a year where they’ve lost,” said Benson. “Too often we look at rankings to see our schools in the bottom 10. I want every metric for us to be in the top 10. And as a mom, as a daughter of educators, and as an educator myself, this is personal and this is urgent.”&nbsp;Benson outlined her priorities as governor for strengthening Michigan’s public schools. Her plan which includes:<ul><li>Transitioning to a weighted funding formula that recognizes the diverse needs of students and communities — because, as Benson noted, “a child in Alpena has different funding needs than a child from Grand Rapids.”</li><li>Increasing investment in dual enrollment and Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities, so all students can earn college credit or industry credentials while still in high school.</li><li>Launching MiCare, a universal, full-day, five-day-per-week early childhood education system modeled on successful programs from other states and countries.</li><li>Ensuring Michigan’s elementary education system prepares children to read by expanding access to ongoing teacher training in LETRS early literacy and the state’s Literacy and Mathematics Essentials.</li></ul>Benson continued, “I know it’s easy for folks to come in and have these big ideas for education, but I’m ready to get it done because not just because I grew up in public education, not just because I’m an educator myself, but because I know every day that we don’t spend trying to make Michigan one of the top 10 states for education in the country is a day where we’re falling behind. So I’m eager to get this done…just like I worked to improve our election system, taking us from being ranked 31st in the nation to being number two, and just like I reformed our Secretary of State branch offices to make them among the best and most efficient government offices in the country, I know how to take on and tackle big issues and get things done.”&nbsp; Benson’s passion for education is rooted in her personal and professional background. As the daughter of two special education teachers, she saw firsthand the dedication of educators — and the consequences when they aren’t heard or respected. As an educator herself, she served as Dean of Wayne State University Law School, where she led the institution from the fourth tier of national law school rankings into the top 50, lowered tuition costs, and put student needs at the center of reform. She’s also the mother of a nine year old boy, who will spend the next decade going through Michigan’s education system. Every decision on education made today shapes that future, for him, and for kids like him all across this state.

“Just like I reformed our Secretary of State offices, I know how to take on big issues in education and get things done.” Yesterday, gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson previewed her comprehensive plan to bring Michigan’s public...

Jocelyn Benson Previews Education Agenda at Saginaw Roundtable with Education Leaders, Parents, Students

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson kicked off her gubernatorial campaign last week with overwhelming support from Michiganders across the state. She made her vision for the future of Michigan clear in her campaign ad “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02ciyVciMWc">Fair Shot</a>” which highlights her ability to win tough battles, her commitment to lowering costs, and making sure Michigan is the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home. “We have a responsibility to ensure that everyone gets a fair shot in life,” Benson said. &nbsp;Following her announcement, Benson traveled across Michigan, making stops in Detroit, Lansing, and Grand Rapids to meet with supporters. In Grand Rapids, West Michigan leaders, including Mayor David LaGrand, came together to endorse her candidacy. <a href="https://wwmt.com/news/local/benson-kicks-of-gubernatorial-campaign-at-yesterdog-in-grand-rapids">WATCH HERE</a> The outpouring of support continued with the following list of lawmakers all endorsing on day one:&nbsp;Rep. Phil Skaggs (Grand Rapids), Rep. Joey Andrews (Southwest Michigan), Rep. Jason Morgan (Ann Arbor), Rep. Jimmie Wilson (Ypsilanti), Rep. Carrie Rhenigans (Ann Arbor), Rep. Julie Brixie (Lansing), Rep. Betsey Coffia (Traverse City), Rep. Dylan Wegala (South West Wayne County), Rep. Jennifer Conlin (Washtenaw County), Rep. Kelly Breen (West Oakland County), Rep. Penelope Tsernoglou (Lansing), Rep. Natalie Price (Oakland County), Sen. Sean McCann (Kalamazoo), Rep. Denise Mentzer (Mt. Clemens), Rep. Noah Arbit (West Bloomfield), Former Rep. Adam Zemke (Washtenaw County), and Former Congressman and 2014 Dem. Gubernatorial candidate Mark Schauer (Howell)<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9b12638-e867-4422-b5c9-3bbe3a93dc72/261def2f-a16e-4b39-b6c8-0a9c250cbee6/261def2f-a16e-4b39-b6c8-0a9c250cbee6.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1616%2C1080&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="base"> Benson has also received the endorsement of national organizations, including<a href="https://emilyslist.org/news/emilys-list-endorses-sec-of-state-jocelyn-benson-for-governor-of-michigan/">&nbsp;EMILYs List</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/votemamalobby/p/DFLTHtjTKHw/">Vote Mama</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://endcitizensunited.org/latest-news/press-releases/end-citizens-united-endorses-secretary-of-state-jocelyn-benson-for-michigan-governor/">End Citizens United</a>. See coverage below: <a href="https://www.wxyz.com/news/michigan-secretary-of-state-jocelyn-benson-announces-gubernatorial-run">WXYZ</a>&nbsp;– Detroit, MI:&nbsp;“As Secretary of State, I’ve worked hard to make sure our government works well for everyone. And now I want to make sure every agency works as well as ours and that we continue to make Michigan the best place to be a kid, or raise a kid, or call home,” she said in an interview with 7 News Detroit.”Housing in Michigan should be affordable. And building a home or having a home or paying for energy cost for that home, all of it should be transparent and affordable as well. So our vision for Michigan is one in which housing is affordable, in which you can afford to live or rent a home in the community you want to be in, and then be safe in that home and in that community and in your workplace, and your kids safe in schools,” said Benson. <a href="https://www.freep.com/story/news/politics/elections/2025/01/22/jocelyn-benson-runs-for-michigan-governor/77873117007/">Detroit Free Press:</a>&nbsp;Jocelyn Benson, Secretary of State, announces run for Michigan governor Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced Wednesday her plans to run for governor, making her the first major Democratic candidate to enter the race to replace Gov. Gretchen <a href="http://Whitmer.In">Whitmer.In</a> an email announcing her run, Benson said she has a track record of delivering results to improve the lives of Michigan residents. “I want Michigan to be the best place in the country to be a kid, raise a kid, and be healthy, safe, and successful. A place where government is efficient and easy to deal with, where businesses and communities thrive, and where every resident has access to quality child care, health care, education, and housing,” Benson said in a statement.Speaking to reporters in Lansing Wednesday afternoon, Benson repeatedly pledged to bring efficiency and transparency to state government if elected. She also said her goal is to make sure Michigan government saves residents time and money, pursues an economic development strategy that raises wages for workers, boosts access to affordable housing and child care and improves students’ educational outcomes. <a href="https://michiganadvance.com/2025/01/22/benson-makes-it-official-shes-running-for-governor/">Michigan Advance:&nbsp;</a>Benson makes it official: She’s running for governor In Wednesday’s official announcement, Benson laid out her background as the daughter of public school teachers working in special education.“We have a responsibility to ensure that everyone gets a fair shot in life. That’s what my parents taught me growing up,” she said.“I’ve carried that lesson every step of my life, investigating radical extremist groups, teaching civil rights and voting rights law.”[…]As secretary of state, Benson said her administration “eliminated the long lines, expanded online services and stations, and launched mobile offices to bring services to every corner of our state.”She closed her message with a laundry list of progressive priorities, including “access to affordable health care and reproductive freedom,” adding that every Michigander should be able to “pay their bills, put food on the table, and take care of their families.” <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/22/us/politics/jocelyn-benson-michigan-governor.html">New York Times:</a>&nbsp;Jocelyn Benson, Michigan’s Secretary of State, Is Running for Governor “It’s clear that too many feel left out in the cold, their voices drowned out by more powerful ones,” Ms. Benson said in an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02ciyVciMWc">announcement video</a>. “I’ll keep standing up to any bullies or billionaires who try to deceive us, divide us, take away our rights or deny anyone the opportunity to get a fair shot.”In the video, Ms. Benson said she had run for secretary of state “to make sure government is efficient and transparent, that every voice is heard and every legitimate vote is counted, in every election, no matter the outcome.”Alluding to Republican efforts to overthrow the results of the 2020 election — including armed protests outside her home — she continued, “Some people didn’t like that very much.””But I’ve never backed down from a tough fight,” she added. <a href="https://www.msnbc.com/ayman-mohyeldin">MSNBC Ayman Mohyeldin Reports:</a>&nbsp;Jocelyn Benson enters Michigan governor’s race, condemns 1/6 pardons “Just before I joined you tonight, I was actually at an event in Dearborn talking with local leaders and I heard the same things that I’ve heard talking to folks all across the state, either in northern Michigan, the UP and Detroit and Grand Rapids. There’s a housing crisis in our state where everyone wants to be able to simply afford a home and live in the community that they want to call home. There’s an economic crisis where our wages are stagnant and cost of living is increasing. No matter where anyone lives in the state or who they love or or who they worship those economic issues cut deep and that’s what you need, I believe, from a governor, from a leader, and from government in total to make sure we have the backs of everyone in the state, that everyone feels safe, that you have an economy that works for you, that we’re working to save people’s time, cut costs, and make sure people can afford to live in the communities they wanna live in. So that’ll be my job as governor. That’s my commitment to every resident of the state, no matter who they voted for, Democrats, Republicans and independents. We’re all in this together and we can build a government and an economy that works for everyone.”

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson kicked off her gubernatorial campaign last week with overwhelming support from Michiganders across the state. She made her vision for the future of Michigan clear in her campaign ad “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02ciyVciMWc">Fair Shot</a>”...

ICYMI: Jocelyn Benson Launches Gubernatorial Campaign with Momentum and Support Across Michigan

<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9b12638-e867-4422-b5c9-3bbe3a93dc72/4af5b6ba-0da2-4d9c-bb67-5b550d611235/4af5b6ba-0da2-4d9c-bb67-5b550d611235.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2048%2C1462&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="42.5" variant="base"><img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9b12638-e867-4422-b5c9-3bbe3a93dc72/6c99ee7d-7968-4606-a79f-a80a915d872d/6c99ee7d-7968-4606-a79f-a80a915d872d.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2048%2C1462&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="40" variant="base">Today, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson took part in the Michigan Education Association’s gubernatorial candidate forum where she shared her vision to make Michigan the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home with fellow educators and union members.&nbsp;Benson is a former educator and as the daughter of two special education teachers, she understands firsthand what Michigan educators face every day.&nbsp;That’s why one of the first policies she <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=e2c3f1aeeb&amp;e=57368f8389" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">previewed</a> in her campaign was her plan to make Michigan one of the top 10 states in the country for public education.&nbsp;Benson on teacher recruitment and retention: “I can see nothing that is more important than addressing the educator shortage in our state. … Number one, of course, we need to ensure that compensation and that you all are getting paid for the professionals that you are and the work that you do … We want to invest in wraparound services so that you have continued investment in professional growth, and training, and all the resources you need to grow in your profession and serve the kids in your community … because I know that's what you signed up to do, and it's our job to make sure you're compensated fairly as a result.”&nbsp;Benson on investing in public education: “Michigan has defunded our schools at a higher rate than any other state for the last three decades … Democrats in charge have started to restock some of that money, but none of that is going to be enough until we do away with the one size fits all funding model that is at the root of the reason why you are not getting the support and funds that you need, because you know what is needed in a school in Alpena is different than what is needed in a school in Muskegon that is different than what's needed in Detroit, it's different what's needed in the U.P., period. … [W]e have to change the structure of how we are funding education in this state if we are going to get that goal we all have, which is for our schools to be the best in the nation.&nbsp;Benson on standing up to attacks on education funding: “[W]e also need a governor who, if the President of the United States is going to cut funding, knows how to stand up to him and ensure that we get that funding. And I'm the only one on the stage, you know as Secretary of State, who has, throughout my time in office, been unafraid to stand up to anyone who would get in the way of what we need here in Michigan to protect our schools and our education and election system. I've done that as Secretary of State, and I'll do that as governor.”Secretary Benson previewed <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=022f0f078c&amp;e=57368f8389" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">her plan</a> for strengthening Michigan’s public school last June.&nbsp;###

Today, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson took part in the Michigan Education Association’s gubernatorial candidate forum where she shared her vision to make Michigan the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home with fellow educators and union members.

At Michigan Education Association Forum, Benson Outlines Plan to Invest in Educators

Today, the United Food and Commercial Workers union Local 951, the largest private sector union in Michigan, announced their endorsement of Jocelyn Benson’s run for governor.&nbsp;“I am proud to stand with the largest union in Michigan representing our essential workers in the private sector. I’m grateful for UFCW 951’s trust and support in my campaign to represent them as Michigan’s next governor to make our state the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “I’ll build on the progress we’ve made in the last six years to fight to repeal anti-worker laws, defend MIOSHA against federal attacks, and make sure that every worker – whether in retail, manufacturing, or healthcare – has a voice on the job. Because Michigan’s economy should work for the people who power it.”“We need leaders like Secretary Benson who are willing to stand up to anyone for working people to get the living wage they deserve,” said UFCW 951 President John Cackmaki. “Our local represents over 30,000 Michigan residents across the state who know that the future of Michigan’s working families depends upon a united voice that can stand up to powerful and greedy corporate interests. That’s why we’re standing with Jocelyn Benson for Governor.”&nbsp;“Secretary Benson has spent years making sure Michiganders are saving time and money at the Secretary of State’s offices – she’ll keep doing it as Michigan governor,” said UFCW 951 Secretary-Treasurer Courtney Phillips. “We’re standing with her because she understands that working a full time job means you should have a liveable wage. She’ll fight for fair workplace protections and strengthen MIOSHA and she’ll stand up to any bully in D.C. or Lansing who tries to threaten the livelihood of our members who work hard every day to process, protect and deliver our state’s food supply.”&nbsp;The announcement is the first local labor union endorsement for Secretary Benson’s gubernatorial campaign.The United Food and Commercial Workers union, Local 951, represents more than 30,000 Michiganders across the state. Members work for a variety of employers that keep Michigan running including Grandville Roasting and Packaging, Harding’s, JBS, JLL, Sunberry, Kroger, Meijer, Polly’s, BE Provisioning. UFCW 951 works to improve the lives of our members, their families and all working men and women. Unions are the best assurance that all workers are treated fairly, equally and with dignity and respect.&nbsp;

Today, the United Food and Commercial Workers union Local 951, the largest private sector union in Michigan, announced their endorsement of Jocelyn Benson’s run for governor.&nbsp; “I am proud to stand with the largest union in...

Building a Michigan everyone can afford.

Jocelyn Benson will be a Governor who gets things done for Michiganders.

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Our priorities

Making Michigan the best place to call home.

Affordable Healthcare

Housing for All

Lower Electricity Costs

Quality Education

Jobs & Economic Growth

NEWSROOM

MANISTEE NEWS: “Benson’s [Healthcare Affordability] plan offers hope”

In Detroit, Benson, Saunteel Jenkins, and Local Leaders Discuss Housing Affordability Crisis

West Michigan Stagehands Union (IATSE 26) Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor

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*check your local clerk's office, early voting could begin earlier in your community

July 20

to avoid postal delays, mail in by:

July 21

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Jocelyn Benson will be a Governor who gets things done for Michiganders.

We’re grateful for your donations!

Our priorities

Making Michigan the best place to call home.

Affordable Healthcare

Housing for All

Lower Electricity Costs

Quality Education

Jobs & Economic Growth

NEWSROOM

MANISTEE NEWS: “Benson’s [Healthcare Affordability] plan offers hope”

In Detroit, Benson, Saunteel Jenkins, and Local Leaders Discuss Housing Affordability Crisis

West Michigan Stagehands Union (IATSE 26) Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor

Make a plan to vote!

Election Day

August 4

Early In-Person Voting *check your local clerk's office, early voting could begin earlier in your community

July 20

to avoid postal delays, mail in by:

July 21

Register to vote

Request a mail ballot

Early voting locations

Early In-Person Voting
*check your local clerk's office, early voting could begin earlier in your community