Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a Democrat, announced on Wednesday that she is running for governor. "I'm running for governor to truly make government work for everyone. We need leaders who are transparent and accountable. We need our schools and neighborhoods to be safe for all of us," Benson says in a video accompanying her campaign launch. The video highlights Benson's qualifications, including her tenure as secretary of state, her leadership as dean of Wayne State University Law School, and her role as a co-founder of Military Spouses of Michigan. Benson is the first major contender to enter the 2026 Democratic gubernatorial race. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, however, announced an independent campaign last month, opting out of the Democratic primary. While Duggan has chosen a different route, Benson may face stiff competition in the primary.