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,

Chris Swanson, the high-profile sheriff of Michigan's Genesee County, is launching a Democratic bid to become the battleground state's next governor. First elected sheriff of Michigan’s fifth-largest county in 2020,

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.

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.

Chris Swanson has been the sheriff of Genesee County since being appointed in 2019. He’s twice been elected to the job, in 2020 and 2024. But he told Thursday evening's campaign launch audience he’s been planning to run for governor for the past five years.

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