Michigan Governor race: Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson enters the race
Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson enters 2026 Michigan governor race
Known for his energetic approach to law enforcement, Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson was the latest candidate to toss a hat into the race to replace Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Swanson launched his campaign at Mott Community College in Flint on Thursday night.
FLINT, Mich. (FOX 2) - A prominent face in Genesee County has thrown his hat into the ring, running for Michigan Governor in 2026.
Dig deeper:
Known for his energetic approach to law enforcement, Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson was the latest candidate to toss a hat into the race to replace Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
Swanson launched his campaign at Mott Community College in Flint on Thursday night.
"The bottom line is, if you want to ask me why I’m running for governor, cause I want to help people. That’s it. That's it. It doesn’t have to be complicated," Swanson told supporters. "Not only will I protect you and your families, and the things that mean the most to you, I’m going to protect the economy because you can’t do what you need to do without an economy that’s growing."
Swanson was first elected Genesee County’s top cop in 2020 and has embraced calls for police reform while targeting human trafficking operations.
He gained national exposure as a speaker at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, but political observers say he's still largely unknown outside the Flint area.
Big picture view:
The gubernatorial field is now one larger candidate and already includes current Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan's also in the contest, but as an independent looking to shake things up.
"If I’m not trying to change the system, I should go do something else. I think the system is broken, it needs to be upended. The two parties have had a death grip on our politics for too long," he said.
Meanwhile, on the other side, State Senate GOP Leader Aric Nesbitt of Michigan’s west side is the only Republican to enter the race so far. He’s been one of Whitmer’s fiercest critics in Lansing.
"The Governor and Democrats believe it is they who know how to spend your money best," he said.
Featured
The next Michigan governor - there's no shortage of contenders, says Lansing insider
Since Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is unable to run in 2026, it's a rare opportunity for would be-governors to ponder a bid and the list of contenders is long.