Benson for Governor Reports Record Breaking $3.5 Million Raised   

Benson has $2.4 million cash on hand, doubling and tripling the amounts her Democratic opponents raised in the same filing period

Jocelyn Benson has raised over $3.5 million since launching her campaign for Governor in January—more than doubling the record set by Governor Whitmer in a Democratic primary during the last open race for Governor. With over 27,000 individual contributions, 95% of them under $100, and donations from all 83 Michigan counties, Benson’s campaign has far surpassed the $1.5 million Whitmer raised in her first six months back in 2017.

Benson’s grassroots-powered momentum reflects broad statewide support for her agenda: building affordable housing across the state, overhauling Michigan’s education system to move from the bottom 10 to the top 10, tackling the rising cost of healthcare, childcare, and groceries, and making our government agencies truly work for everyone.

“The numbers make it clear: Jocelyn Benson is the best candidate to take on any candidate, Republican or Independent, in November 2026. ,” said Benson Campaign Manager Nikki Goldschein. “This record-breaking haul not only showcases the strength of this campaign, but it tells the story of the movement we are building. Supporters from every corner of our state are on board with Jocelyn’s vision to make Michigan the best place to be a kid, raise a kid and call home. They want a Governor with a track record of getting things done – and never backing down from a tough fight. They want a Governor who will stand up to the bullies and the billionaires who threaten our rights and freedoms. They want a Governor who is accountable to the people – not the corporations. And they know that person is Jocelyn Benson.”  

Recent public polling shows Benson as the overwhelming favorite in the Democratic primary and leading all Republican and Independent candidates in early projections for the November 2026 general election.

Benson has also earned endorsements from 18 state lawmakers across Michigan, seven mayors—including those from Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Highland Park—and organizations like UFCW 951 and 876, EMILYs List, the largest organization supporting pro-choice Democratic women, and End Citizens United have also thrown their support behind her.

With over $2.4 million cash on hand and growing momentum, Benson’s campaign is well-positioned to go the distance and make Jocelyn Benson Michigan’s next governor.