Jocelyn Benson wins Michigan Democratic gubernatorial primary, CBS News projects

Key facts

Projected winner: Jocelyn Benson
Votes (as of 9 p.m.): Benson 211,877; Swanson 38,439
Votes counted: 17%
Republican primary contenders: John James and Perry Johnson
Benson's role: Michigan Secretary of State since 2018
Swanson's role: Genesee County Sheriff since 2020

Background

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is projected to win Tuesday's Democratic gubernatorial primary, according to CBS News. As of 9 p.m., unofficial results showed Benson leading with 211,877 votes over Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson's 38,439 votes, with 17% of votes counted.

Benson, first elected in 2018, oversees the state's election processes and motor vehicle department. She has cited achievements including decreasing wait times for in-person appointments and installing self-service motor vehicle stations across the state.

Swanson, elected sheriff of Michigan's fifth-largest county in 2020, gained national attention for marching with protesters after the death of George Floyd and speaking at the 2024 Democratic National Convention. He attended Mott Community College and the University of Michigan, earning degrees in public administration.

Current situation

Benson will face the winner of the Republican primary between Congressman John James and businessman Perry Johnson in the general election.

Benson's campaign focuses on housing and affordability, healthcare, childcare, energy costs, and renewable energy infrastructure. She also addresses data centers, arguing they should bring jobs and low energy costs, and has pushed for public hearings on the issue.

Swanson's campaign highlights a cannabis protection plan, a pet protection plan, and expanding the I.G.N.I.T.E. program in jails, which he launched in 2020 to reduce reincarcerations through education. He also supports funding for school infrastructure like bulletproof glass and metal detectors.

Primary vote count (as of 9 p.m.)
Candidate	Votes
Jocelyn Benson	211,877
Chris Swanson	38,439

Unofficial results with 17% of votes counted.

Impacts

Benson's victory sets up a competitive general election in Michigan, a key battleground state. Her record as Secretary of State and her criticism of President Trump could energize Democratic voters.

Benson has faced legal challenges: in January 2026, four Black employees sued the Secretary of State's office alleging racial discrimination. In May 2025, Attorney General Dana Nessel said Benson violated state law by hosting a campaign press conference in a state building's lobby.

The outcome may affect Michigan's approach to data centers, with Benson advocating for public input and benefits for residents. Her stance on renewable energy could also influence state energy policy.

Future outlook

Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.

If Benson wins the general election, she would become Michigan's next governor, potentially implementing her progressive agenda on housing, healthcare, and energy. Her victory could also impact national Democratic strategies in the Midwest.

If the Republican nominee wins, Michigan's policies on data centers, energy, and education might shift, given the GOP's likely priorities. The race's outcome may also affect national debates on election administration and voting rights.

Benson's legal issues could resurface during the general election campaign, potentially influencing voter perceptions. However, her statewide electoral record and endorsements from party leaders may bolster her campaign.

Source: cbsnews.com

AMRIT EXPLAINER