Michigan's 2026 gubernatorial race: Benson promises $300 billion in economic changes

Jocelyn Benson, the current Secretary of State and Democratic candidate for governor, stated on Oct. 26 that she intends to negotiate subnational agreements with Canada to protect Michigan businesses from federal tariffs. Benson said these deals would seek exemptions for specific goods, such as auto supplies, to lower costs for families and small enterprises.

The candidate pointed to her track record in the Department of State, noting that Michigan’s election systems moved from a 30th national ranking to second in safety and accessibility. She credited her office with achieving the highest voter turnout in the state’s history for three consecutive cycles. Benson described the Department of Motor Vehicles as a former symbol of bureaucracy that has been reformed to save residents time through new kiosks and streamlined services.

Benson entered the race after serving as Secretary of State since 2019. She cited her role as a mother of a 10-year-old boy as a primary motivator, arguing that state decisions over the next eight years will shape her child’s future. She positioned herself as a candidate who understands how to run government efficiently to drive down costs and create well-paying jobs.

On education, Benson said she will continue the reinvestment started by the Whitmer administration, including free school meals. She plans to revise the funding structure to meet unique district needs and increase teacher pay. She stated that Republicans have defunded schools at a higher rate than any other state for three decades, leading to current declines in reading scores.

Benson proposed creating a public portal for residents to review data center proposals in their communities. She called for a moratorium on new projects until guardrails are established to protect water resources and energy costs. She said local voices must have a say in community benefits agreements, contrasting this with her opponent’s record of voting against local input four times.

The next steps in the campaign include a statewide tour where Benson is collecting input from voters on rising healthcare and housing costs. She plans to work with the legislature to modernize building codes for child care centers and to streamline the process for small business expansion. The general election is scheduled for the fall of 2026.