Michigan Secretary of State Benson Raises Record $3.5M for Governor Bid

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has raised a record-breaking $3.5 million for her 2026 gubernatorial campaign, more than doubling the previous record set by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2017. Benson's fundraising success includes over 27,000 individual contributions from all 83 counties in Michigan, with 95% of donations under $100, demonstrating broad grassroots support. She currently holds over $2.4 million in cash-on-hand, surpassing her Democratic primary opponents Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, who has raised over $750,000 since March, and former Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson, who has raised over $1 million. A May poll commissioned by the Detroit Regional Chamber showed Benson leading the Democratic field with 59.3% support, well ahead of Gilchrist and Swanson. Benson emphasizes her commitment to economic prosperity and government policies that make life more affordable and easier for Michiganders. The Republican primary is also competitive, featuring candidates such as Rep. John James, state Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, former Speaker Tom Leonard, and former Attorney General Mike Cox, who has raised $2.4 million since entering the race.