Michigan Chooses Its Next Leaders: Benson, El-Sayed Lead Statewide Winners
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan voters have chosen a new slate of leaders whose decisions will reach from the governor’s office to the U.S. Senate. For families, small businesses and community institutions, the next chapter begins with a familiar question: What will those choices mean close to home?
Democrat Jocelyn Benson won the governor’s race against Republican John James, according to Associated Press reporting carried by Michigan Public. Benson, currently Michigan’s secretary of state, will succeed Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who is term-limited.
Democrat Abdul El-Sayed won Michigan’s open U.S. Senate race against Republican Mike Rogers, Michigan Public reported. The result sends a new voice to Washington as Sen. Gary Peters retires.
Democrat Garlin Gilchrist defeated Republican Anthony Forlini in the secretary of state contest. Votebeat reported that AP called the race early Wednesday. The office oversees Michigan elections and provides services that residents use every day, including driver’s licenses and vehicle registration.
Democrat Eli Savit defeated Republican Doug Lloyd to become Michigan’s next attorney general, according to AP reporting published by Michigan Public. Savit will succeed term-limited Attorney General Dana Nessel.
Together, the results keep Michigan’s governor, secretary of state and attorney general offices in Democratic hands. They also bring a change in leadership to offices responsible for state policy, election administration and legal representation.
In the Lansing-area 7th Congressional District, Democrat William Lawrence declared victory over Republican incumbent Tom Barrett. Michigan Advance’s report, published at 3:22 a.m. Wednesday, said AP had not yet called that race. A campaign’s declaration is different from an independent race call; this report does not list Lawrence as a confirmed winner.
For Chronicle readers, the work after Election Day includes following what elected leaders do with the responsibilities voters have entrusted to them. State and federal decisions intersect with local concerns about affordability, education, health care and the strength of our neighborhoods.
This is an early statewide roundup, not a complete list of Michigan election results. Reported race calls are distinct from certified results. Vote totals and outstanding contests should be checked again before publication.
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