Who won Governor of Michigan race? Meet Democrat Jocelyn Benson and her $60000 promise for teachers

Jocelyn Benson spent the governor’s race asking Michigan voters to judge her by a job she already had. As secretary of state, she said she made it easier for residents to get routine business done. She argued that the same approach could help Michigan build housing faster and make state services less frustrating to use. Associated Press announced Benson as the winner of governor’s race in Michigan during the early hours of November 4. She defeated Republican U.S. Rep. John James, keeping the governor’s office in Democratic hands as term-limited Gov. Gretchen Whitmer prepares to leave.

Michigan election results: Who is Jocelyn Benson?

Benson already knows a lot of the office and has great experience in leading, as she has served as Michigan’s secretary of state since 2019. Before joining the government, she has an impressive profile of graduating from Harvard Law School and teaching law at Wayne State University. Her career peaked as she also became the dean of the law school. Her parents were public school teachers. She reflected on that background during the campaign when she was making the case for higher teacher pay.

Benson’s first prominent fame came during the 2020 presidential election. She was not contesting the polls but was Michigan’s chief election administrator. It was during the time when Donald Trump and his allies challenged the results after Joe Biden won the state. Benson stood her ground and defended the count during that time rising to fame. She went on to oversee Michigan’s 2024 election as well.

What has Benson promised on housing and healthcare?

Benson’s My Affordable Michigan plan calls for incentives to build more starter homes and affordable housing. She also wants to curb corporate purchases of residential properties. Her argument is that Michigan needs to build homes faster while giving people looking for a place to live a better shot at buying one.

On healthcare, Benson proposed a $5,000 caregiver tax credit and clearer medical bills. She also wants an independent board to scrutinize prescription drug prices. In rural and underserved areas, her plan calls for expanding access to free or low-cost preventive care.

Why is $60,000 a number to watch in Lansing?

Benson wants Michigan teachers to start at $60,000 or more. Her education plan also calls for directing school funding according to student needs. She has pledged to help more children read by third grade and to expand access to pre-K.

Her plans for families begin even earlier. Benson wants to expand Rx Kids, which provides cash support during pregnancy and early infancy, to communities across Michigan. A statewide expansion would require funding. The election gave Benson the chance to make that case in Lansing.

What do Michigan voting results mean for Benson’s plans?

Winning the governorship gives Benson a platform to push her agenda. Measures such as a caregiver tax credit and changes to school funding will also need lawmakers’ support. Democrats entered the election in control of the Michigan Senate, while Republicans held the state House. The results in those chambers will shape what Benson can get through the Legislature.