Three candidates—Jocelyn Benson, Chris Swanson, and Kim Thomas—are running in the Democratic primary for Governor of Michigan on August 4, 2026. Benson and Swanson lead in polling, fundraising, and media attention ahead of the primary.

Incumbent Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) is term-limited, leaving the office open in 2026. The Associated Press' Joey Cappelletti wrote that the race "is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested political battles of 2026."

Benson was elected Michigan Secretary of State in 2018 and is also term-limited in 2026. She earned her bachelor's degree from Wellesley College, her master's degree from Oxford University, and her law degree from Harvard. Before her election as secretary of state, Benson served as dean of Wayne State University Law School. Benson also wrote a book called State Secretaries of State: Guardians of the Democratic Process and co-founded Military Spouses of Michigan.

Benson is campaigning on lowering costs, expanding access to housing and healthcare, and improving public education. On her campaign website, Benson says she "has a proven track record of transforming broken government systems and fixing them to save Michiganders time and money while protecting their rights and freedoms," and that as governor, she "will make Michigan more affordable, take our public schools to the top 10 in the nation, and make government work for Michiganders."

Swanson was appointed sheriff of Genesee County in 2019 and won election to the position in 2020 and 2024. He attended Mott Community College and earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in public administration from the University of Michigan. Swanson's career experience includes three decades in law enforcement, work as a paramedic, and teaching public health at the University of Michigan-Flint. As sheriff, Swanson founded task forces focused on human trafficking, criminal sexual conduct, and inmate education.

Swanson is campaigning on lowering costs, public safety, state government reforms, and improving public education. Swanson told reporters in April 2026 that the race would not be "a coronation," and said, "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."

In Michigan, the gubernatorial nominee is selected in the primary. Major and minor party lieutenant gubernatorial nominees are chosen at party conventions and run on a joint ticket with the gubernatorial nominee.