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<p></p><span class="image image-base image-center" style="width: 100%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9b12638-e867-4422-b5c9-3bbe3a93dc72/9743559b-8a3c-4a20-a9cb-e87aff337ebb/9743559b-8a3c-4a20-a9cb-e87aff337ebb.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=34%2C0%2C1204%2C857&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="base"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span><h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">As a mom, Jocelyn’s north star in this election is making sure Michigan is affordable for everyone so our young people, seniors, and everyone in between can&nbsp;stay and thrive in Michigan.&nbsp;</span></h4><p>She knows firsthand that government works best when it’s there when you need it, and gets out of the way when you don’t. The cost of living is crushing Michiganders but Jocelyn believes that government can make life easier with the right leader as governor who will use every tool available to expand rural healthcare options, build more housing, take on the utility companies who raise our rates, make childcare free, and ensure our agencies work, so anyone can afford to live in the best place to call home.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<h1>Building a Michigan everyone can afford.</h1>

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<h6>Senate majority leader</h6>

<h4>Winnie Brinks</h4>

<h6>State Senator</h6>

<h4>Jeremy Moss</h4>

<h6>State senator</h6>

<h4>Rosemary Bayer</h4>

<h6>state senator</h6>

<h4>Dayna Polehanki</h4>

<h4>Sean McCann</h4>

<h4>Sue Shink</h4>

<h4>Darrin Camilleri</h4>

<h4>Paul Wojno</h4>

<h4>Sam Singh</h4>

<h4>Sarah Anthony</h4>

<h4>Stephanie Chang</h4>

<h6>State senator<br></h6>

<h4>Jeff Irwin</h4>

<h4>Veronica Klinefelt</h4>

<h6>House Democratic  leader</h6>

<h4>Ranjeev Puri</h4>

<h6><span style="color: var(--color-headline-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-headline-secondary);">state representative</span></h6>

<h4>Joey Andrews</h4>

<h6>state representative</h6>

<h4>Tonya Myers-Philips</h4>

<h4>Carrie Rheingans</h4>

<h4>Jimmie Wilson</h4>

<h4>Julie Brixie</h4>

<h4>Dylan Wegela</h4>

<h4>Betsy Coffia</h4>

<h4>Jennifer Conlin</h4>

<h4>Kelly Breen</h4>

<h6>State Representative</h6>

<h4>Morgan Foreman</h4>

<h4>Noah Arbit</h4>

<h4>Penelope Tsernoglou</h4>

<h4>Natalie Price</h4>

<h4>Jason Morgan</h4>

<h4>Emily Dievendorf</h4>

<h4>Denise Mentzer</h4>

<h4>Phil Skaggs</h4>

<h4>Stephen Wooden</h4>

<h4>Jason Hoskins</h4>

<h4>Laurie Pohutsky</h4>

<h4>Mai Xiong</h4>

<h6>State REpresentative</h6>

<h4>Samantha Steckloff</h4>

<h6>State representative</h6>

<h4>Veronica Paiz</h4>

<h6>STATE REPRESENTATIVE</h6>

<h4>Amos O'Neal</h4>

<h4>Sharon MacDonell</h4>

<h6>STATE REPRESENTATIVE<br></h6>

<h4>Mike McFall<br></h4>

<h4>Regina Weiss<br></h4>

<h4>Kristian Grant</h4>

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<p>Be part of our people-powered campaign to shape Michigan’s future. By volunteering, you’ll help lead conversations in communities across the state, build strong local organizing, and bring the energy and commitment it takes to win and deliver real change for Michiganders.</p>

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<h1>Meet Jocelyn</h1>

<h2><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">NEWSROOM</span></h2>

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<p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-secondary);">Jocelyn has a proven track record</strong></span> 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;</p>

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<p>Want to make Michigan the best place to be a kid, raise a kid, and call home? Join us!</p>

<h2>Support Jocelyn Benson for Governor!</h2>

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<h6>U.S Representative</h6>

<h4>Hillary Scholten</h4>

<h6>Former U.S Representative</h6>

<h4>Brenda Lawrence</h4>

<h2>Jocelyn's Top Priorities</h2>

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<h2>Ryan Friedrichs is not working on any Michigan data center projects.</h2><p>Ryan has already recused himself from any state-related work that could come before a Benson administration.</p><p>He is currently <a href="https://www.crainsdetroit.com/politics-policy/ryan-friedrichs-shifts-national-role-related-cos/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">focused</a> on affordable housing projects in other states.</p>

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<p>Stay up to date with the latest news, announcements, and updates from the campaign as we build a winning coalition heading into 2026.</p>

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<p>Jocelyn was one of the <strong>first</strong> gubernatorial candidates to release a strict set of guardrails on data centers and corporations who want to do business in Michigan.</p>

<h2><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">FACT:</span></h2>

<h4>Public hearings to ensure projects do not go through without residents having the opportunity to share their concerns.</h4>

<h4>Transparency and disclosure reporting to ensure no backdoor deals that exclude communities.</h4>

<h4>Requiring developers to prove prior to construction that the data center will not abuse natural resources – from water to land.</h4>

<h4>Data centers bear the cost of additional energy usage. Not the consumer.</h4>

<h4>Union contracts that ensure the creation of well-paying jobs.</h4>

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<h2>We’re grateful for your donations!</h2>

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<h2><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">WHAT SHE DID</span></h2>

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<h1>Volunteer</h1>

<h2><strong>The Saline project was approved under the current Whitmer Administration.</strong></h2><p>Jocelyn Benson had no involvement in authorizing, financing, or developing the project.</p>

<h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">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.</span></h4>

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<h1>Privacy Policy</h1>

<p>The campaign cares about your privacy rights, and about providing you with the information you need in order to protect them. Accordingly, we've created this policy to explain our privacy practices. This applies to <a href="https://www.jocelynbenson.com/">https://www.jocelynbenson.com/</a> only.</p><p>We may revise and update this policy if our practices change, if we add new features to the site, or if we change existing ones that affect these practices. We may also modify this policy if we find better ways to inform you of products or services that we think will be of interest. You should refer back to this page often for the latest information.</p><h4><strong>Terms of Use</strong></h4><p>These Terms of Service (“Terms”) apply to your access to and use of the websites, mobile applications and other online offerings (collectively, the “Sites”) provided by Jocelyn Benson for Governor (the “Committee,” “we,” or “us”). By accessing or by using the Sites, you agree to these Terms, and any terms incorporated by reference. If you do not agree to these Terms, do not use the Sites.</p><h4><strong>Consent to Receive Text Messages</strong></h4><p>By providing your mobile number and opting in, you agree to be contacted by or on behalf of Jocelyn Benson for Governor at the provided mobile number. This includes text messages for informational, product, or service-related purposes (e.g., donation requests, advocacy actions, etc.). Message frequency varies, and standard message and data rates may apply.</p><p>To stop receiving text messages, reply with the word STOP. 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For example, when making a contribution, in addition to providing us your name, address, occupation and name of employer, you will need to provide us a billing address and credit card or bank account information, and answer a series of brief questions to make sure we may legally accept your contribution.</p><p>You may make changes to the information you have provided by visiting any form throughout the <a href="https://www.jocelynbenson.com/">https://www.jocelynbenson.com/</a> site. You may also contact us at <a href="mailto:info@jocelynbenson.com">info@jocelynbenson.com</a> with any questions or changes to your account.</p><p>Automatically Collected Information: We automatically receive certain types of information whenever you interact with us online. For example, when you visit our site, our systems automatically collect your IP address and the type of browser you use. Information may be automatically collected through the use of “cookies” (more information below). We also collect “clickstream” data about your use of the site.</p><h4><strong>Network And Information Security</strong></h4><p>We employ a variety of physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards to guard your personal information. For example, we use commercially reasonable tools and techniques to protect against unauthorized access to our systems. Also, we restrict access to personal information about you to those employees who need to know that information to provide services to you. In addition, we work to protect the security of your personal information by using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) software, which encrypts information you input and allows you to view your information in a secure manner.</p><p>You should be aware that we have no control over the security of other sites on the Internet you might visit, interact with, or from which you buy products or services. Further, we store the personal information we collect from you behind a secure firewall and place the transaction site on a secure server.</p><h4><strong>Disclosure Of Personal Information</strong></h4><p>Text messaging originator opt-in data will not be shared with any third party, except: (1) with vendors, consultants and other service providers who need access to such information to carry out work on our behalf (and who will not use such information for their own purposes); or (2) if we believe disclosure is required by any applicable law, rule, or regulation or to comply with law enforcement or legal process.</p><p>Information about our donors and website visitors is one of our most important assets and therefore we keep it confidential. Personal information is made available to others for the following, limited purposes:</p><p>To Comply with Campaign Finance Laws. We are often required to disclose information regarding our contributions to comply with campaign finance laws. For example, Michigan law requires us to make best efforts to obtain and report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer of individuals who contribute to the Committee.</p><p>To Carry Out Your Requests. We also may be required to disclose personal information in order to carry out your requests when you use the site. For example, we will share personal information with third parties as necessary to complete a donation transaction or to deliver an e-mail to someone you have identified or when we disclose your return address as part of the service.</p><p>To Protect You and Ourselves. We release personal information when we believe release is appropriate to comply with the law (e.g., a lawful subpoena), to protect our rights or property, or to protect our donors and supporters from fraudulent, abusive, or unlawful conduct, or if we reasonably believe that an emergency involving immediate danger of death or serious physical injury to any person requires disclosure of communications or justifies disclosure of records without delay.</p><p>To Support Democratic Candidates and Organizations. We may disclose selected personal information (other than credit card information, bank information, or mobile phone numbers) to other campaigns and organizations that we believe are like-minded or that we believe you may wish to hear from.</p><h4><strong>Cookies</strong></h4><p>We may automatically collect information using “cookies” or cookie-like files called Local Shared Objects (Flash cookies). Cookies are small data files stored on your hard drive by a Web site. Local Shared Objects are larger data files stored on your hard drive. Among other things, cookies and Local Shared Objects help us improve our site and your experience, count visits to our site and to tailor your experience on our site according to which areas you have visited on our site and the preferences you have specified, and to save you the effort of having to log in or provide information each time you visit our Web site. These cookies and Local Shared Objects may be linked to your personal information. Most Web browsers are set to accept cookies by default. If you prefer, you can usually choose to set your browser to remove cookies and to reject cookies. If you choose to remove cookies or reject cookies, this could affect certain features or services of our site. Browser settings will not affect Local Shared Objects.</p><h4><strong>Web Beacons</strong></h4><p>We may collect information using Web beacons. Web beacons are electronic images that may be used on our sites or in our emails. We use Web beacons to deliver cookies, count visits, understand usage and campaign effectiveness and to tell if an email has been opened and acted upon.</p><h4><strong>Third Party Advertisements</strong></h4><p>We may also use third parties to show you ads for other organizations on our site. We may also use third parties to show our ads on other organizations' Web sites based on your prior visits to our site. To show these ads, these third parties may automatically collect information about your visits to our site and other Web sites, your IP address, your ISP, the browser you use to visit our site (but not your name, address, email address or telephone number). They do this using cookies, clear gifs or other technologies. Information collected may be used, among other things, to deliver advertising targeted to your interests and to better understand the usage and visitation of our site and the other Web sites tracked by these third parties. This policy does not apply to, and we are not responsible for, cookies or clear gifs in third party ads or on third party Web sites, and we encourage you to check the privacy policies of advertisers and/or ad services to learn about their use of cookies and other technology. If you would like more information about this practice and to know your choices about not having this information used by these third parties, <a href="http://www.networkadvertising.org/">click here.</a></p><h4><strong>Children's Online Privacy Protection Act</strong></h4><p>We do not knowingly, directly or passively, collect information from children under the age of 13. To respect the privacy of children and to comply with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, children under the age of 13 should not provide any Personal Information on this Site. We ask that parents supervise their children while online.</p><h4><strong>Links To Other Sites</strong></h4><p>Please be aware that we may provide links to third-party Web sites, including those sites maintained by Democratic candidates, other Democratic committees and news media outlets, as a service to our visitors. We are not responsible for the content or information collection practices of those sites. Please note that these sites' privacy policies may differ from ours. We encourage you to review and understand their privacy practices before providing them with information.</p><h4><strong>Updating This Policy</strong></h4><p>We may revise or update this policy if our practices change, as we change existing or add new features or as we develop better ways to inform you of features we think will be of interest. You should refer back to this page often for the latest information. If we decide to change this policy, we will post a new policy on our sites and change the date at the top of the policy.</p><h4><strong>How to Contact Us</strong></h4><p>If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please contact us by e-mail at <a href="mailto:info@jocelynbenson.com">info@jocelynbenson.com</a>, or at the mailing address listed below:</p><p>23133 Woodward Ave, Number 116, Ferndale, MI 48220</p>

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<p>The daughter of two special education teachers, Jocelyn was raised in a middle class family that instilled the values of hard work, opportunity, and serving others.</p><p><span style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text-accent-primary);">From a young age, she knew she wanted to fight for justice and make a difference. </strong></span>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.</p><h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">Jocelyn made history when she was appointed dean of Wayne State University Law School at age 35.</span></h4><p>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.</p><h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">When Jocelyn became Michigan's Secretary of State in 2019, she got to work on day one to make life easier for every Michigander.</span></h4><p>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;</p>

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<h2>July 20</h2>

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<h2>July 21</h2>

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<h2>Want to learn more about Jocelyn’s tough plan on data centers?</h2>

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<h2>Jocelyn's family has not made any money from data centers. Period.</h2><p>The attacks are based on a lie that has been thoroughly <a href="https://michiganadvance.com/2026/03/27/credentials-in-question-how-a-meditation-instructor-became-a-michigan-house-expert-witness-on-ai/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">debunked</a>. Her husband’s employer, Related Companies, has unequivocally stated:</p><p><em>"Mr. Friedrichs has never had any role in the financing of Related Digital's project and makes no commission from it. Any claims to the contrary are 100% false."<br></em></p><p>As Secretary of State, Jocelyn exceeded Michigan's financial disclosure requirements by voluntarily reporting additional information about both her own and her husband's finances. Those disclosures make clear these allegations are false.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h1><span style="color: var(--color-bg4-text-accent-primary); text-decoration-color: var(--color-bg4-text-accent-primary);">ENDORSEMENTS</span></h1>

<h1>Events</h1>

<p><strong>Republicans are spreading false claims about Jocelyn Benson and her family. Here's the truth.</strong></p>

<h1>Setting the Record Straight</h1>

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<h4>Affordable Healthcare</h4>

<h4>Housing for All</h4>

<h4>Lower Electricity Costs</h4>

<h4>Quality Education</h4>

<h4>Jobs &amp; Economic Growth</h4>

<h3><strong>Making Michigan the best place to call home.</strong></h3><p><span style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);"><strong style="color: var(--color-text); text-decoration-color: var(--color-text);">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;</strong></span></p>

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Republicans are spreading false claims about Jocelyn Benson and her family. Here's the truth.

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<p style="text-align: center;"><em>The campaign doubled its fundraising in 2026, raising nearly $5 million since January&nbsp;</em></p><p>Today, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson announced her campaign has raised $10.8 million since she launched – almost $4 million more than any other non-incumbent Democratic candidate for governor in Michigan history at this point in the cycle. Since the last fundraising deadline, the campaign has brought in nearly $5 million, including $3.2 million in the 58 days since the Independent candidate dropped out of the race, and has $6.4 million cash on hand.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>With over 75,000 individual contributions from all 83 counties in Michigan, 93% of contributions $100 or less, and no corporate PAC money, Jocelyn is heading into what is expected to be a <a href="https://www.axios.com/newsletters/axios-hill-leaders-7785dba0-3ce3-11f1-b1ed-dddfd1873d32.html?chunk=1&amp;utm_term=emshare#story1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">historically expensive</a> general election with a strong grassroots fundraising program and a proven record of delivering.</p><p></p><p>"The numbers are clear: Jocelyn Benson is ready to win this race," <strong>said Benson campaign manager Nikki Goldschein.</strong> "While Republicans have spent months&nbsp;burning through millions of dollars trying to prove who is most loyal to Donald Trump, we’ve been building up the necessary campaign infrastructure and ensuring we have the resources to win in November. Jocelyn has refused corporate PAC money from day one, and this report proves you don't need special interests to build a winning campaign when you have Michiganders behind you in the fight to lower costs, raise wages, and stand up to corruption."&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>The fundraising announcement comes after recent <a href="https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/politics/2026/07/15/jocelyn-benson-chris-swanson-democratic-governor-race-primary-poll/90920037007/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">polling</a> shows Jocelyn leading the Democratic primary by 60 points and <a href="https://www.realclearpolitics.com/docs/2026/MITCHELL_MI_Poll_Press_Release_6-17-2026_7PM.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ahead</a> of either extreme Republican in the general.</p><p></p><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">###</p>

<p>Today, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson announced her campaign has raised $10.8 million since she launched – almost $4 million more than any other non-incumbent Democratic candidate for governor in Michigan history at this point in the cycle. Since the last fundraising deadline, the campaign has brought in nearly $5 million, including $3.2 million in the 58 days since the Independent candidate dropped out of the race, and has $6.4 million cash on hand.</p>

<h4>Jocelyn Benson Announces Record-Breaking $10.8 Million Raised Since Campaign Launch</h4>

<p>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;</p><p>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;</p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Key point:</strong> “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.”</p><p><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"><strong>Traverse City Record-Eagle: </strong></a><strong>Benson kicks off campaign tour in TC</strong></p><p>[Peter Kobs, 6/17/2025]&nbsp;</p><p>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.</p><p>[…]</p><p>She later addressed a crowd of 75 at a town hall at the main branch of the Traverse Area District Library.</p><p>“Wherever I go, everyone brought up housing costs,” said the 47-year-old candidate who was first elected secretary of state in 2018.</p><p>“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.</p><p>“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.”</p><p>[…]</p><p>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.</p><p>If elected governor, Benson said she’d attack the problem from several angles.</p><p>“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.”</p><p>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.</p><p>[…]</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>“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.”</p>

<p>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...</p>

<h4>ICYMI: Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson Addresses Housing Affordability Crisis in Traverse City Townhall</h4>

<p>Today, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson rallied a crowd of hundreds of UAW members in Detroit to share <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/x5hEJt5eEYx?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">her plans</a> to lower costs, and to fight for working Michiganders as governor. Earlier this month, the UAW <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/2bFH6KFUQnt?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">endorsed</a> Jocelyn for governor because of her commitment to stand with Michigan workers against corporate interests and billionaires.</p><p></p><p>“As governor, I will work for you, not the highest bidder, not lobbyists, not Donald Trump, you. I’ll work to keep you safe where you work. Stand with you on the picket line as you fight for a fair contract. Call out corporate greed. Stop plant closures. I’ll make sure you can access your benefits - from health care to unemployment to your pension,” <strong>said Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson.</strong> “The bottom line is government is going to show up when you need it, save you time, save you money, and then get out of your way.”</p><p></p><p><strong>Jocelyn was named the “</strong><a href="https://us.list-manage.com/ZgZrlswdXUc?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>top pro-worker candidate</strong></a><strong>” and has been endorsed by key labor groups and more union members across Michigan than any other candidate, including:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><p>The majority of <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/W5AU5W4P0mw?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michigan Teamsters</a> including locals 1038, 406, 243, 283, and 247 – which constitutes a majority of the Teamsters locals&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/xCOpD2rX6IC?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michigan Nurses Association</a>, the largest union of registered nurses and health care professionals in the state</p></li><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/16SXhdL0bFK?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michigan Laborers</a> District Council&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/fhrQTGwJVQk?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Association of Flight Attendants – CWA</a></p></li><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/_UdtKOyvkPs?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">United Food and Commercial Workers</a> union Local 951, the largest private sector union in Michigan&nbsp;</p></li><li><p><a href="https://us.list-manage.com/d3_tiyivGGw?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">UNITE HERE Local 24</a></p></li><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/qIwfx9ytVIp?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Northern Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters</a>, which represents over 14,000 workers</p></li><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/NkxbcI_Fhpt?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">United Auto Workers</a></p></li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><p style="text-align: center;">###</p>

<p>Today, Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson rallied a crowd of hundreds of UAW members in Detroit to share <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/x5hEJt5eEYx?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">her plans</a> to lower costs, and to fight for working Michiganders as governor. Earlier this month, the UAW <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/2bFH6KFUQnt?e=486aa7a2e0&amp;c2id=c02a5449d7dc1fffaf207242f3f645e7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">endorsed</a> Jocelyn for governor because of her commitment to stand with Michigan workers against corporate interests and billionaires.</p>

<h4>Jocelyn Benson Commits to Being a Governor for Working Michiganders at UAW</h4>

<p style="text-align: center;"><em><br>“Benson said projects that fail to meet those standards would not be allowed to operate in Michigan”</em></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>New reporting from the <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=18e90efe1d&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Detroit Metro Times</a> details Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson’s “strict” guardrails that will ensure transparency and local involvement in projects, keep energy costs low for communities, protect Michigan’s natural resources, and require union labor.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>As governor, Jocelyn will implement checks and guardrails to shape projects and ensure a transparent process approving any new projects. With clear standards and enforceable requirements, Michigan can invest in growing the jobs of the future while embracing opportunities to support our clean-energy and power grid buildout. Jocelyn has been clear: Data centers and corporations that violate these guardrails will not be able to operate in Michigan.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p><em>In case you missed it…&nbsp;</em></p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Detroit Metro News: </strong><a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=6b7290f2d4&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Benson takes on data center boom with stricter safeguards</strong></a></p><p>[Steve Neavling, 03/22/2026]&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson is rolling out a plan to impose strict new safeguards on data centers in Michigan to address concerns over rising energy costs, environmental impacts, and transparency.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>[...]</p><p></p><p>Benson, the secretary of state and Democratic frontrunner for governor, first announced the plan to Metro Times. She said Michigan should only allow data centers under strict conditions that protect residents and the environment.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>The centers must “improve and deliver prosperity, well-paying union jobs, and affordable, low energy costs for our residents,” Benson’s campaign said.</p><p></p><p>Her proposal would set enforceable conditions to avoid the kinds of problems that have prompted opposition to similar projects nationwide.</p><p></p><p></p><p>Those requirements include:</p><ul><li><p>Mandatory public hearings before any project is approved</p></li><li><p>Full transparency and disclosure to prevent backroom deals</p></li><li><p>Proof, before construction, that projects will not harm natural resources or increase energy costs</p></li><li><p>A requirement that data centers — not ratepayers — cover the cost of increased energy demand</p></li><li><p>Union labor agreements to ensure well-paying jobs</p><p></p></li></ul><p></p><p>Benson said projects that fail to meet those standards would not be allowed to operate in Michigan.</p><p></p><p>[..]</p><p></p><p>A December poll by Progress Michigan found a majority of Michiganders oppose data centers because of concerns over rising utility bills, environmental impacts, and a lack of transparency.</p><p></p><p>Benson’s plan is aimed at addressing those issues.&nbsp;</p><p></p><p>&nbsp;[...]</p><p></p><p>Benson’s proposal is an attempt to strike a balance between attracting new jobs and protecting residents and communities from the potential costs and environmental impacts of large-scale data centers.</p><p></p><p>“Data centers and corporations that violate these guardrails will not be able to operate in Michigan,” Benson’s campaign said.</p><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">###</p>

<p>New reporting from the <a href="https://jocelynbenson.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=43a4c8630d5394806474bb6b1&amp;id=18e90efe1d&amp;e=4ca3c643a9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Detroit Metro Times</a> details Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson’s “strict” guardrails that will ensure transparency and local involvement in projects, keep energy costs low for communities, protect Michigan’s natural resources, and require union labor.&nbsp;</p><p></p>

<h4>Detroit Metro Times: “Benson Takes on Data Center Boom with Stricter Safeguards”</h4>

<p>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<strong> 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.</strong></p><span class="image image-framed image-left image-tilt-left" style="width: 50%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><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"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span><p>Here's the truth: <strong>Michigan's Department of Health and Human Services is broken. </strong>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 #31 to #2 in the nation, I'll bring the same data-driven ethic to our broken healthcare system.</p><p>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. <strong>We need to shift the focus from profits to people.</strong> 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.</p><p>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</p><h4>Read the full healthcare affordability agenda <a href="/affordability-agenda-healthcare.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.</h4>

<h2>Healthcare</h2>

<p>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;</p><p>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;</p><span class="image image-base image-center" style="width: 100%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><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"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span><p>“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,” <strong>said Jocelyn Benson</strong>. “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.”</p>

<p>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...</p>

<h4>Jocelyn Benson, Fems for Dems, Hold Women’s History Month Event With Over 250 Women in Southfield</h4>

<p>Today, Detroit's former U.S. Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence endorsed Jocelyn Benson for Governor.&nbsp;</p><p>“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,” <strong>said Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence.</strong> “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.”</p><p>“It’s an honor to have former Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence’s support in this race,” <strong>said Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson.</strong> “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.”</p><p>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.</p><p style="text-align: center;">###</p>

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

<h4>Detroit’s Former U.S. Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor</h4>

<p>In a new op-ed in the <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/Hn7UgjWfStf?e=567d77d2b6&amp;c2id=32860a37e343d09d0b23e40366da756a" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michigan Chronicle</a>, Jocelyn Benson marks Juneteenth by outlining how she will work to deliver on the promise of the civil rights movement as governor. She believes economic opportunity is key for all Michiganders’ ability to thrive. That’s why she’s developed a real plan to lower costs, raise wages, and invest in every community across our state—creating more opportunities to build wealth and build a future in our state.</p><p></p><p><strong>Key point: </strong>“Juneteenth is a celebration of the promise of freedom finally reaching everyone. Securing the promise of this democracy is not easy work and too often leaders make big promises during campaigns and fail to deliver. That’s why today, I'm sharing a plan — to lower costs, raise wages, expand opportunity, and invest in every community across this state. Because every Michigander deserves to build wealth, raise a family, and see themselves in the future of this state.”</p><p></p><p><em>In case you missed it…&nbsp;</em></p><p></p><p><strong>Michigan Chronicle: </strong><a href="https://us.list-manage.com/QolXuUJnYj6?e=567d77d2b6&amp;c2id=32860a37e343d09d0b23e40366da756a" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>My Promise and My Plan to Deliver</strong></a></p><p>[Jocelyn Benson, 06/19/2026]&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Throughout my career, I’ve been guided by a simple question: What does it mean to fully deliver on the promise of the civil rights movement?</p><p><br></p><p>For generations, people fought to secure the rights and freedoms that too many Americans were denied. And while protecting those rights remains as important as ever, the unfinished work of the civil rights movement today is also economic. It's about whether every family can afford a home, access quality healthcare, send their children to great schools, start a business, and build wealth to pass on to the next generation.</p><p><br></p><p>Across Michigan, Black families, entrepreneurs, workers, students, and community leaders are already doing the work of building stronger communities and creating opportunity. The question is whether government will be a partner in that work.</p><p><br></p><p>That's the approach I've taken as Secretary of State. I traveled to every one of Michigan's 130 branch offices because I believe government works best when it listens. Together, we cut wait times dramatically, improved service for customers, and improved working conditions for employees. We also helped deliver two of the highest-turnout elections in Michigan history by working alongside community leaders, faith leaders, and grassroots organizations to make sure every voter could participate freely and fairly in our democracy.</p><p><br></p><p>Those experiences reinforced something I've long believed: when government listens, includes people in the process, and focuses on solving real problems, we can make meaningful progress.</p><p><br></p><p>That's why when I decided to run for governor, the first thing I did was release a plan to lower costs, raise wages, and invest in every community across our state.</p><p><br></p><p>Because economic opportunity starts with health. Black women in Michigan continue to face unacceptable disparities in maternal health outcomes. Every mother deserves access to safe, high-quality care before, during, and after pregnancy. That's why I have a plan to expand access to doulas and midwives, invest in culturally competent care, and ensure mothers receive the support they need.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Economic opportunity also starts with education. Every child deserves access to a great public school, regardless of their ZIP code. That's why I've proposed replacing Michigan's one-size-fits-all education funding model with a system that recognizes the unique needs of different communities and ensures every student has the resources they need to succeed. Because we know what a school in Alpena needs is different from what a school in Saginaw needs which is different from what a school in Benton Harbor needs.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>And economic opportunity requires pathways to build wealth. For generations, homeownership has been one of the most powerful ways families build financial security and pass opportunity to the next generation. Yet too many Michigan families are being priced out of that dream. My housing plan will help more first-time homebuyers put down roots and begin building generational wealth.</p><p><br></p><p>The same is true for entrepreneurship. I want Michigan to be the small business capital of the world, and that starts with Black-owned businesses that have long been engines of opportunity in communities across Michigan. My administration will work to ensure those businesses have greater access to capital, contracts, and growth opportunities while cutting unnecessary barriers that make it harder to succeed.</p><p><br></p><p>Juneteenth is a celebration of the promise of freedom finally reaching everyone. Securing the promise of this democracy is not easy work and too often leaders make big promises during campaigns and fail to deliver. That’s why today, I'm sharing a plan — to lower costs, raise wages, expand opportunity, and invest in every community across this state. Because every Michigander deserves to build wealth, raise a family, and see themselves in the future of this state.</p><p><br></p><p>As governor, my commitment is simple: every community will have a seat at the table, every family will have a fair shot to build wealth and achieve economic security, and every child will have the opportunity to succeed.</p><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><p style="text-align: center;">###</p>

<p>In a new op-ed in the <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/Hn7UgjWfStf?e=567d77d2b6&amp;c2id=32860a37e343d09d0b23e40366da756a" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michigan Chronicle</a>, Jocelyn Benson marks Juneteenth by outlining how she will work to deliver on the promise of the civil rights movement as governor. She believes economic opportunity is key for all Michiganders’ ability to thrive. That’s why she’s developed a real plan to lower costs, raise wages, and invest in every community across our state—creating more opportunities to build wealth and build a future in our state.</p>

<h4>Jocelyn Benson on Juneteenth: “Every Michigander Deserves to Build Wealth, Raise a Family, and See Themselves in the Future of this State”</h4>

<p>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.</p><p>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;</p><p>“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,” <strong>said</strong> <strong>Michigan District Council Business Manager Brent Pilarski.</strong> “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;</p><p>“Jocelyn Benson is the leader we need here in Michigan to continue the pro-worker progress we’ve made in the last decade,” <strong>said Local 355 Business Manager Arlander Washington.</strong> “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;</p><p>“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,” <strong>said Local 499 Business Manager Dan Minton.</strong> “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;</p><p>“I’m so grateful to have the support of LiUNA and their 14,000 members across Michigan, <strong>said Jocelyn Benson</strong>. “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;</p><p>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.</p>

<p>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...</p>

<h4>Michigan Laborers’ District Council (LiUNA) Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor</h4>

<p>Today, EMILY’s List, the nation’s largest resource for women in politics, endorsed Jocelyn Benson in the race for Governor of Michigan.</p><p>“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,” <strong>said EMILYs List President Jessica Mackler.</strong> “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.”</p><p>“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,” <strong>said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson</strong>. “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.</p><p>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.</p><p>EMILYs List has supported Benson in 2010, 2018, and 2022 in previous elections.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><em>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 </em><a href="http://www.emilyslist.org"><em>www.emilyslist.org</em></a><em> for more information.</em></p>

<p>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...</p>

<h4>EMILYs List Endorses Jocelyn Benson for Governor</h4>

<p>In response to Donald Trump’s complete disregard for working Michiganders who rely on federal funding for healthcare, housing, food, and more,<strong> Jocelyn Benson</strong> released the following statement:&nbsp;</p><p>“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.”</p><p><strong>Here’s what’s at stake for Michigan under Donald Trump:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li><p><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;</p></li><li><p>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;</p></li></ul><p>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.</p>

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

<h4>Jocelyn Benson Statement on Donald Trump Pausing Federal Dollars for Thousands of Working of Michiganders</h4>

<p>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;</p><p>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;</p><span class="image image-base image-center" style="width: 80%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><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"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span><p>“As leaders in Michigan, we have a moral responsibility to fix [the Black maternal healthcare crisis],” <strong>said Secretary Benson during the press conference. </strong>“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;</p><p>&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,” <strong>said Danielle Atkinson. “</strong>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.”</p><p>“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,” <strong>said Janet Poole.</strong></p><span class="image image-base image-center" style="width: 80%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><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"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span><p>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.</p><span class="image image-base image-center" style="width: 80%;"><span class="image-inner-wrapper"><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"></span><span class="caption" style="display: none;"></span></span><p>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.</p><p style="text-align: center;">###</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h4>Benson Discusses Maternal Healthcare in Flint, Meets with Michiganders in Bay City and Saginaw</h4>

<p>Today, the Michigan American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) Michigan <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/eyTMUyPhtoQ?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">endorsed</a> Jocelyn Benson as the next Governor of Michigan. The state federation of labor represents over 1,000,000 active and retired members of 40+ unions throughout the state.</p><p></p><p>“Jocelyn Benson has fought for workers as Secretary of State and she’ll continue that fight as Michigan’s next governor,” <strong>said Ron Bieber, president of the Michigan AFL-CIO.</strong> “Michigan workers need a governor who will lower costs, raise wages, protect safe workplaces, and ensure workers have a voice on the job. Union members across Michigan are excited to support Jocelyn Benson for Governor.”</p><p></p><p>“The Michigan AFL-CIO represents and amplifies the voices of over a million hard-working Michiganders who power our economy and build our communities,” <strong>said Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson.</strong> “I’m proud to have them on the team because Michiganders need a governor who will fight to lower their costs, raise their wages, and make sure their families can succeed. I won’t hesitate to take on anyone — no matter how powerful — who gets in the way of that mission. Together, we can build a Michigan where everyone can afford to live and thrive.”</p><p></p><p>The Michigan AFL-CIO is the latest to join a growing coalition of state and local leaders, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations supporting Benson to be Michigan’s next governor including the United Auto Workers, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 951, the majority of Michigan Teamsters (including locals 1038, 406, 243, 283, and 247), Michigan Laborers District Council, Northern Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters, Michigan Nurses Association, UNITE HERE Local 24, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, among others. You can find a full list of endorsements <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/qXWLv6WTR4o?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.</p><p></p><p><strong>Jocelyn was named the “</strong><a href="https://us.list-manage.com/pinFVte6BJD?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>top pro-worker candidate</strong></a><strong>” and has been endorsed by key labor groups and more union members across Michigan than any other candidate, including:</strong></p><ul><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/12FXiZ0wZtD?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">United Auto Workers</a></p></li><li><p><a href="https://us.list-manage.com/7qj5Qp3gJ8D?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SEIU</a></p></li><li><p>The majority of <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/14FIEw5l6Fe?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michigan Teamsters</a> including locals 1038, 406, 243, 283, and 247</p></li><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/wlfxbPpQ71X?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michigan Nurses Association</a>, the largest union of registered nurses and health care professionals in the state</p></li><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/eqPI1J5VoE6?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Michigan Laborers</a> District Council</p></li><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/gHktfgSx1g4?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Association of Flight Attendants – CWA</a></p></li><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/1AQJjHVMzdY?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">United Food and Commercial Workers</a> union Local 951, the largest private sector union in Michigan</p></li><li><p><a href="https://us.list-manage.com/15WUYUQ_BcQ?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">UNITE HERE Local 24</a></p></li><li><p>The <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/VnFSo6iRnqk?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Northern Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters</a>, which represents over 14,000 workers</p></li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">###</p>

<p>Today, the Michigan American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) Michigan <a href="https://us.list-manage.com/eyTMUyPhtoQ?e=206b67a443&amp;c2id=b03e5337684422656f72d19755ec5f0e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">endorsed</a> Jocelyn Benson as the next Governor of Michigan. The state federation of labor represents over 1,000,000 active and retired members of 40+ unions throughout the state.</p>

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