Jocelyn Benson Wins Michigan Democratic Gubernatorial Primary
Wertynews.com – CBS News projects that Jocelyn Benson wins Michigan Democratic gubernatorial race, securing the party’s nomination for governor. By 9 p.m. Tuesday, preliminary results showed Benson leading with 211,877 votes against Chris Swanson’s 38,439, with only 17 percent of ballots counted. If the projection stands, Benson will face Republican nominee Congressman John James in November’s general election.
Party Leaders Celebrate the Victory
Democratic Governors Association Chair Andy Beshear praised Benson’s achievement:
Congratulations to Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson on becoming the Democratic nominee for governor in Michigan. Jocelyn understands the challenges families are facing, and she has been a fearless public servant who fixes broken systems and improves the lives of Michiganders.
As Secretary of State, she kept her promises and transformed one of Michigan’s largest departments into one that saved people time, increased transparency, and defended our democracy against relentless attacks. As governor, Jocelyn will tackle corruption, lower the costs of health care, housing, and energy, and always stand up to Donald Trump when he threatens Michigan families and their freedoms.
She’s already earned the trust of Michiganders by winning statewide twice, and the DGA will be all-in to make sure she wins this high-stakes race so she can keep standing up for the people of Michigan.
Ken Martin, chair of the Democratic National Convention, also congratulated Benson:
Congratulations to Jocelyn Benson on earning the Democratic nomination to be the next governor of Michigan. As Michigan’s Secretary of State, Jocelyn has dedicated her career to serving the people of Michigan, protecting the right to vote, and delivering results for families across the state.
Background and Campaign Issues
Benson first won election as Michigan Secretary of State in 2018, overseeing both electoral operations and the motor vehicle division. Her tenure included reducing face-to-face appointment wait times and deploying self-service kiosks statewide. She has been vocal about voter fraud claims from the 2020 presidential election and advocates for greater government transparency.
Legal challenges have emerged recently. In January 2026, four Black employees sued the Michigan Secretary of State alleging racial discrimination. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel also stated in May 2025 that Benson violated state law by holding a campaign press conference inside a state building lobby—a decision Benson defended to keep attendees warm.
Meanwhile, Chris Swanson won election as Genesee County sheriff in 2020. The county ranks as Michigan’s fifth-largest. Swanson gained national attention for marching with protesters after George Floyd’s death and addressed delegates at the 2024 Democratic National Convention. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public administration from Mott Community College and the University of Michigan.
What Voters Should Know
Benson’s platform focuses on housing affordability, healthcare access, childcare support, energy costs, and renewable energy expansion. She also addresses Southeast Michigan’s data center debate, supporting development that creates jobs and provides affordable energy rates.
The primary results reflect a decisive victory for the Secretary of State, positioning her as the Democratic standard-bearer in one of the nation’s most competitive swing states.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Michigan general election?
The general election will take place on November 5, 2024, when voters will choose between Democratic nominee Jocelyn Benson and Republican nominee John James.
How many votes did Benson receive?
According to CBS News projections, Benson received 211,877 votes compared to Chris Swanson’s 38,439 votes in the Democratic primary.
What is Benson’s current position?
Jocelyn Benson currently serves as Michigan Secretary of State, a position she first won in 2018 and has held since then.
Who is Chris Swanson?
Chris Swanson is the Genesee County sheriff who ran against Benson in the Democratic primary and received 38,439 votes.
