Michigan's Democratic secretary of state announced Wednesday that she is running to succeed Gretchen Whitmer as governor in 2026, as the party tries to find its footing after November's significant losses in the battleground state.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson becomes the first major Democratic candidate to launch a bid to be Michigan's next governor.

Benson said she's running for governor to "bring real solutions, not political games, conspiracy theories, or inaction" to Lansing.

Benson, a Democrat, is among the well-known politicians who have announced plans for the governor race in recent weeks. Republican legislator Aric Nesbitt announced his campaign Jan. 14; Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan announced in December that he would run as an independent.

State Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt is the second well-known candidate to enter the race to succeed Whitmer, who has two years remaining in her final term after being reelected in 2022. The open governor’s seat in 2026 is expected to spark competitive primaries.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced she will be running for governor in 2026. Benson, a Democrat, is the latest person to throw their name in the gubernatorial race.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a Democrat, announced Wednesday that she is launching a campaign for governor.