By
Updated on: August 4, 2026 / 9:55 PM EDT
/ CBS Detroit
Add CBS News on Google
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is projected to be the winner of Tuesday's Democratic gubernatorial primary race, according to CBS News.As of 9 p.m., unofficial results show that Benson was winning with 211,877 votes over Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson's 38,439 votes. At that time, 17% of the votes had been counted.Benson would go head-to-head against the winner of the Republican primary — Congressman John James and businessman Perry Johnson.Democratic National Convention Chair Ken Martin released the following statement: "Congratulations to Jocelyn Benson on earning the Democratic nomination to be the next governor of Michigan. As Michigan's Secretary of State, Jocelyn has dedicated her career to serving the people of Michigan, protecting the right to vote, and delivering results for families across the state. Her record of leadership has earned the trust of Michigan voters, and Democrats are united behind her as we work together to lower prices, protect healthcare, and build on our progress in order to keep Michigan moving forward." The candidatesBenson was elected in 2018 and oversees the state's election processes and the motor vehicle department. She cited her achievements in that role, including decreasing wait times for in-person appointments and installing self-service motor vehicle stations across the state. Benson's campaign promises include bringing accountability and transparency to state government, and working on behalf of the state's families with a "progressive vision for Michigan's future." She has been critical of President Trump, who has repeatedly made claims of voter fraud during the 2020 election.
