MI-GOV: Chris Swanson (D) files nominating paperwork in campaign for governor

Genessee County Sheriff Chris Swanson says not to count him out in his race for governor. His campaign says it turned in a little over 26,000 nominating petition signatures Friday to get on the Democratic primary ballot.

Polling has consistently shown Swanson trailing his main opponent, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, in the primary race. But he said he’s not letting that get him down as talks to voters across the state.

Speaking with reporters outside the state Bureau of Elections Friday, Swanson said the race would not be a “coronation.” He believes a “silent majority” of voters want a candidate that can heal divisions within the state and country.

“I think this whole country is looking for something that's different than the establishment candidate who has talking points. They want to see actions, and that’s what we bring. That’s what makes me different,” he said.



https://www.michiganpublic.org/politics-government/2026-04-18/chris-swanson-files-nominating-paperwork-in-campaign-for-governor