FLINT, MI – Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson has officially entered the race for Michigan governor, launching his campaign on Thursday, Feb. 6, at Mott Community College in Flint. The event drew more than 400 supporters from across the state.
“When there’s a challenge, we will solve it. When there’s a crisis, we will bring calm. When there’s an opportunity, we will seize it,” Swanson said. “I believe everyone has value. Michigan has value. It’s why I’ve always tried to find ways to help and bring people together. I believe that together, we are tough enough to win for Michigan.”
Swanson, a Democrat, has served as Genesee County Sheriff since 2020 and was re-elected in 2024. He currently oversees Michigan’s fifth-largest sheriff’s office.
The 2026 gubernatorial race is shaping up to be particularly significant. In the 2024 elections, Republicans experienced a notable resurgence, reclaiming the presidency and making gains in various state legislatures. This shift has emboldened the GOP, which now views Michigan as a prime opportunity to flip the governor’s seat. Democrats, on the other hand, are determined to maintain their hold on the state.
In true battleground form, Michigan’s governorship has consistently alternated between Democratic and Republican leadership over the past several decades. Gretchen Whitmer (Democrat) has served as governor since 2019, taking over from Rick Snyder (Republican), who held the office from 2011 to 2019. Before Snyder, Jennifer Granholm (Democrat) served from 2003 to 2011, succeeding John Engler (Republican), who governed from 1991 to 2003. Engler followed James Blanchard (Democrat), who served from 1983 to 1991, after William Milliken (Republican), Michigan’s longest-serving governor, led the state from 1969 to 1983.
The 2026 election will determine the successor to Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who is term-limited and unable to seek re-election.
Declared candidates vying for the position include Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a fellow Democrat, and Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt. Former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox, a Republican, has filed paperwork to explore a potential campaign, while Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has entered the race as an independent.
With a diverse field of candidates and heightened political stakes, Michigan voters will play a crucial role in shaping the state’s future direction.
