LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson will be the state’s next governor after defeating Republican Congressman John James in Tuesday’s election, keeping the governor’s office in Democratic hands for another four years.

The Associated Press called the race for Benson, who leads James 54.4% to 43.9% with 95% of the vote counted as of 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, according to unofficial election results.

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In a post on X, Benson thanked Michigan voters for their support. “We will drive costs down, raise wages up, end corruption, and make Michigan the best place in the nation to call home — together,” she wrote.

Benson, who has served as secretary of state since 2019, will succeed term-limited Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Benson and her running mate, state Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, will take office January 1, 2027.