Chris Swanson, the Genesee County sheriff who entered the Michigan governor race, had a simple ask for Michiganders who are looking for someone to support for Governor in 2026: “Walk with me.” It’s the same message the sheriff shared with thousands after removing his police helmet,

Genesee County Chris Swanson has told The Associated Press he's launching a Democratic bid to be Michigan's next governor.

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson announced Thursday that he is running for governor, seeking the Democratic nomination in a field that already includes Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson.

FLINT, MI – Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson has entered the Michigan governor race. The popular law enforcement official announced his plans to run during a Thursday, Feb. 6, news conference at Mott Community College in Flint.

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson kicked off his campaign for governor with fanfare at an event in Flint with his supporters.

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson is expected to formally announce his candidacy for governor Thursday at around 5:30 p.m., which you can watch live on this page. A potential bid for governor has been in Swanson’s orbit for at least four years.

Swanson is campaigning for the Democratic nomination for governor in 2026 against Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. They are hoping to succeed Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who cannot run again due to term limits. State Sen. Aric Nesbitt is running for the Republican nomination while Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is running as an independent.

Genesee County Sheriff Christopher Swanson is the latest person to throw a hat in the ring in the race for Michigan governor.

Another Democrat will be running for Michigan governor and it may be Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson. “This look is all about American exceptionalism,” she said of her pro-Trump ensemble on the Grammys red carpet.