Michigan Lt. Gov. Gilchrist, Clerk Byrum Net Multiple Legislative Endorsements for 2026 Bids

Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II has received endorsements from 11 Democratic state lawmakers, mainly from Metro Detroit and Flint, as he campaigns for the 2026 Democratic gubernatorial nomination. His endorsements include state Senators Veronica Klinefelt and Paul Wojno, as well as nine state representatives, signaling strong regional support that could be pivotal against rivals Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson. Benson, who also seeks the Democratic nomination, has secured a broader base of legislative endorsements across the state, including West Michigan and Traverse City. Meanwhile, Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum has announced endorsements from several Democratic legislators in her bid for the secretary of state nomination. Republican candidates such as U.S. Rep. John James and Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt are also preparing for the 2026 gubernatorial primary. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has chosen not to endorse any candidate in the Democratic primary, leaving the field open in the race for governor and secretary of state.