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

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

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 Sheriff Chris Swanson confirmed Thursday what he had been hinting at since last year: He is running to be the Democratic nominee for governor in 2026. “I’ve been wanting to say something for a long time,

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 announced on Feb. 6, 2025, he will be running for the state’s governor seat in the 2026 race. He is the second candidate to be running for the Democratic Party. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson joined the race earlier in January.

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