Michigan Secretary of State Race: Lottery Commissioner Resigns to Enter Crowded Dem Field

December 9, 2025

Suzanna Shkreli, a former Michigan Lottery Commissioner and cabinet member in Governor Whitmer's administration, has entered the Democratic race for Michigan Secretary of State, joining three other candidates already competing for the party's nomination. The winner will be chosen by Democratic delegates at an April 19 convention rather than through a primary election, and will face a Republican challenger amid concerns from Democrats about potentially losing the office. Shkreli's platform includes implementing digital driver's licenses, accelerating election result reporting, and expanding senior services at state branches.

Who is affected

Democratic voters and party delegates in Michigan
The four Democratic candidates: Suzanna Shkreli, Aghogho Edevbie, Barb Byrum, and Adam Hollier
Current Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson (running for governor)
Michigan residents who would receive services from the Secretary of State office
Governor Whitmer's administration (losing a cabinet member)
Joe Froehlich (appointed as acting Lottery Commissioner)
Michigan Lottery operations and school funding beneficiaries

What action is being taken

Suzanna Shkreli is running for Michigan Secretary of State
Four Democratic candidates are actively campaigning and raising funds
The candidates are differentiating themselves based on political philosophy, experience, and identity
Joe Froehlich is serving as acting commissioner of the Michigan Lottery following Shkreli's resignation

Why it matters

This race is significant because Democrats fear losing control of the Secretary of State office, which oversees Michigan's election administration at a time when democratic institutions face heightened scrutiny and partisan conflict. The position has become particularly critical given Republican legislators' request for federal oversight of the 2026 election and broader national concerns about election integrity. Additionally, the race involves fundamental questions about who should manage elections, with candidates distinguishing themselves through election administration experience, commitment to refusing corporate PAC money, and the historic significance of potentially electing another Black statewide officeholder.

What's next

Democratic delegates will choose their nominee at the state party's nominating convention on April 19
The Democratic nominee will face a Republican candidate in the general election
Joe Froehlich will continue serving as acting Michigan Lottery Commissioner

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle