Jocelyn Benson has named Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks as her running mate in the 2026 Michigan governor's race, bringing legislative experience and a west Michigan connection to the Democratic ticket ahead of the November election.
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson has chosen Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks of Grand Rapids as her running mate for the 2026 Michigan governor's race. The announcement was made Wednesday in Grand Rapids, where Benson emphasized Brinks' legislative background and her role in advancing Democratic priorities in the state Senate.
Benson, who currently resides in Detroit, said she sought a partner with a proven record of legislative achievement to help implement her agenda if elected. Brinks, who has led the Senate since 2023, is recognized for her leadership during a period when Democrats held full control of Michigan's government for the first time in four decades.
Brinks' Legislative Experience and Regional Ties
Winnie Brinks brings more than a decade of legislative experience to the ticket. She first entered the Michigan House of Representatives in 2012 and was later elected to the state Senate in 2018. In 2023, Brinks became the first woman to serve as Senate majority leader, overseeing the passage of significant legislation, including new "red flag" gun laws, expanded anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ residents, a clean energy mandate, and the repeal of the state's Right-to-Work law and senior tax on retirement income.
Her selection adds a west Michigan presence to the Democratic ticket, complementing Benson's Detroit base. Brinks told supporters she is committed to working alongside Benson to address affordability and opportunity for Michigan families.
Historic All-Women Ticket and Election Dynamics
The Democratic ticket now features two women at the top, a first for Michigan's major parties. This stands in contrast to the Republican slate, which, for the first time in nearly 50 years, did not nominate a woman for any of the top statewide offices. Last week, Republican gubernatorial nominee John James selected state Rep. Jay DeBoyer as his running mate, also emphasizing legislative experience.
Brinks noted the significance of the all-women ticket, stating that representation in Michigan's highest offices matters. She also highlighted the importance of connecting with voters in Kent County and other changing regions of the state.
Nomination Process and Political Strategy
Running mates for governor in Michigan must be formally nominated by party delegates at their respective conventions. The Michigan Democratic Party is scheduled to meet August 29 in Lansing, while Republicans will hold their convention August 22 in Mount Pleasant. The selection of Brinks is seen by political observers as both a strategic and political move, aiming to strengthen the ticket's appeal across different regions and legislative backgrounds.
Political consultant Chris DeWitt commented that a running mate with legislative experience and regional ties can help advance a governor's agenda and broaden electoral support. Brinks' background in west Michigan and her leadership in the Senate are expected to play a role in the campaign's outreach efforts.
Background and Next Steps
Brinks began her political career as a write-in candidate in 2012 after the incumbent switched parties. She has since served three terms in the House and is now in her second Senate term. Brinks is a graduate of Calvin College and previously worked for a west Michigan nonprofit focused on employer-employee relations.
As the campaign moves forward, both parties will complete their formal nomination processes and continue vetting candidates to avoid potential political liabilities. For additional context on recent scrutiny of Benson's public service, see reporting on Republican concerns about her past board role at the Southern Poverty Law Center.
Michigan voters will choose their next governor and lieutenant governor in the general election this November.
