Michigan’s 2026 Secretary of State Race Heats Up as Both Parties Crowd the Field

With Jocelyn Benson stepping aside, a new wave of contenders is vying to shape Michigan’s elections and public services. Who will win the party nominations—and the trust of voters?

, and Administrator

2025 November 14 . 3:17 AM

1 min read

In this picture we can see some people and a woman standing at the podium, smiling and in front of... — In this picture we can see some people and a woman standing at the podium, smiling and in front of her we can see a mic, red cloth and at the back of her we can see flags, banner, lamp and in the background we can see the wall.

Michigan’s 2026 Secretary of State Race Heats Up as Both Parties Crowd the Field

Michigan's 2026 election will see a crowded race for secretary of state, with both parties fielding multiple candidates. The position, currently held by Democrat Jocelyn Benson, oversees elections, driver's licenses, vehicle registrations, and consumer protection.

Benson, who won the 2022 election with 55.9% of the vote, is term-limited and cannot run again. On the Republican side, candidates include Timothy Smith, Anthony Forlini, Monica Yatooma, and Amanda Love. Forlini aims to restore trust in Michigan's electoral system and streamline operations.

The Democratic field is equally competitive, with Barbara Byrum, Aghogho Edevbie, and Adam Hollier vying for the nomination. Byrum, backed by the party establishment, is running on a platform of protecting voting rights and fighting government inefficiency and corruption.

Candidates will be nominated at respective party conventions in spring 2026, making endorsements crucial in this early stage of the race.

With the secretary of state's office playing a vital role in Michigan's electoral process and public services, the 2026 election promises to be a hotly contested affair. Voters can expect a lively debate among candidates from both parties in the coming months.