Detroit News Endorses Chris Swanson in Democratic Race for Governor

FLINT, Mich. Michigan voters have begun receiving absentee ballots, and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson has picked up a major endorsement in the Democratic race for governor. The Detroit News editorial board endorsed Swanson over Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson in the Aug. 4 Democratic primary to replace term-limited Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

The endorsement gives Swanson a high-profile boost with just weeks remaining before the primary. While newspaper endorsements do not determine election outcomes, they can influence politically engaged voters and help shape public discussion during a competitive statewide race.

In its endorsement, The Detroit News described Swanson as a pragmatic leader with executive experience, pointing to his 34 years in law enforcement and his management of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office. The editorial board said Swanson has demonstrated a results-oriented approach to leadership and argued that he would bring a stronger executive management style to the governor's office.

The newspaper also criticized Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, writing that her tenure has included unnecessary political conflicts and raising concerns about transparency. The editorial concluded that Swanson is the stronger Democratic choice heading into the primary.

The endorsement is noteworthy because The Detroit News editorial board has traditionally backed Republican candidates in many statewide general elections. However, the newspaper has occasionally endorsed Democrats during primary contests, including backing Gretchen Whitmer in the 2018 Democratic gubernatorial primary before endorsing Republican Bill Schuette in the general election.

Swanson has continued to build support from several organizations during his campaign. In recent weeks, he received endorsements from the Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters and Millwrights and the Teamsters. His campaign has emphasized public safety, workforce development, mental health initiatives, and stronger penalties for animal cruelty.

Benson remains one of the best-known Democrats in the race after serving two terms as Michigan secretary of state. Her campaign has focused on protecting voting rights, expanding economic opportunity, improving education, and continuing many of the policy priorities pursued during the Whitmer administration.

Michigan's two leading Democratic candidates have not yet debated each other. Swanson participated in a televised forum hosted by FOX 2 in June, while Benson did not attend because of a previously scheduled event. Benson has said she has participated in several candidate forums and plans to debate the Republican nominee after the primary.

Michigan voters will choose their Democratic nominee on Aug. 4. The winner will advance to the November general election to compete to become Michigan's next governor after Whitmer leaves office because of term limits.

The Question:

Do newspaper endorsements still influence your vote, or do you rely on other sources before making a decision?