Jocelyn Benson

Democratic · Governor, Michigan
General election Tuesday, Nov 3, 2026

← Michigan Governor race · All Michigan races

Jocelyn Benson

Democratic · Candidate for Governor, Michigan

Jocelyn Benson earned a bachelor's degree from Wellesley College, a graduate degree from the University of Oxford, and a law degree from Harvard Law School.

Via Ballotpedia
Campaign site · Ballotpedia profile · Ballot listing source

Also running: Donna Brandenburg (U) · Douglas Campbell (G) · Anthony Hudson (L) · John James (R)

Where Benson stands

Tariffs on Canada

I hope to be able to work with the federal government to drive down those costs, but I'm also willing to negotiate agreements with our neighbors to the north that are legally enforceable
Quoted by Michigan Advance, Oct 15, 2026

Position history

Tariffs on Canadian goods

  1. Aug 31, 2026 (Virtual press conference)
    On the campaign website: “I mean, just this week alone, the DeVos family has poured an additional $5 million into my opponent's race.” (Campaign website)
    Source: Michigan Public, Aug 31, 2026
  2. Sep 6, 2026 (CBS "Face the Nation")
    The average Michigan family is paying $5,600 more.
    Source: CBS News via KYMA, Sep 7, 2026

Data centers

  1. Oct 15, 2026 (second Michigan governor debate, WDIV)
    We have to put guardrails in place to protect local voices
    Source: WXYZ, Oct 2026

Cost of living

  1. Oct 15, 2026 (second Michigan governor debate, WDIV)
    My plan will actually ensure that we are working with you to drive down the cost of healthcare and invest in clean energy infrastructure to reduce the cost of energy
    Source: WXYZ, Oct 2026

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