Michigan Governor’s Race: Benson reports fundraising lead over field

October 29, 2025

Michigan's 2026 gubernatorial race is heating up with candidates from both major parties and an independent competitor raising significant campaign funds in the most recent reporting period. Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson leads overall fundraising with $1. 2 million raised and nearly $3 million available, while Republican former Attorney General Mike Cox has accumulated the largest war chest at $3.

Who is affected

Michigan gubernatorial candidates: Jocelyn Benson, Mike Cox, John James, Ralph Rebandt, Aric Nesbitt, Tom Leonard, Garlin Gilchrist II, Chris Swanson, and Mike Duggan
Campaign donors including teachers, nurses, service workers, and grassroots supporters
Term-limited Governor Gretchen Whitmer (being replaced)
Campaign staff and managers
Voters in Michigan who will elect a new governor in 2026
Schools, principals, and superintendents (affected by Duggan's proposed education plan)

What action is being taken

Candidates are actively fundraising during the reporting period from July 21 through October 20
Benson's campaign is building support from teachers, nurses, and service workers
Cox is building his campaign team and doing campaign work
Duggan is doubling down on his education plan promise and building a Michigan-focused campaign
Republican candidates are participating in debates (the first taking place Wednesday at Apple Valley Events in Sparta)

Why it matters

This gubernatorial race is significant because it will determine Michigan's leadership after Governor Whitmer's term limit expires, affecting policy directions on critical issues like taxation, labor rights, and education reform. The substantial fundraising totals demonstrate serious competition among multiple viable candidates, with the race featuring contested primaries in both major parties plus a well-funded independent challenge. The outcome will impact Michigan's working families, schools, and economic policies, particularly given the competing visions on issues like eliminating state income tax, right-to-work laws, and education accountability measures.

What's next

The first of three Republican gubernatorial debates is taking place Wednesday at Apple Valley Events in Sparta (without John James in attendance)
Two additional Republican debates will follow
A new governor, attorney general, and secretary of state will be elected at the turn of the new year (2026)

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle