Michigan's Gubernatorial Primary: Garlin Gilchrist, Jocelyn Benson and Chris Swanson

Summary

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Andy Beshear Podcast – Michigan’s Gubernatorial Primary: Garlin Gilchrist, Jocelyn Benson, and Chris Swanson

Date: January 8, 2026

Episode Overview

Andy Beshear hosts a special episode introducing listeners to the three major Democratic candidates in the 2026 Michigan gubernatorial primary: Garlin Gilchrist (Lieutenant Governor), Jocelyn Benson (Secretary of State), and Chris Swanson (Genesee County Sheriff). In unscripted, wide-ranging conversations, Beshear explores each candidate’s background, accomplishments, vision for Michigan, and personal motivations—providing both Michigan residents and outsiders with substance on what’s at stake in this pivotal race.

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Contents

• Garlin Gilchrist: Data-Driven Problem Solver
• Jocelyn Benson: Defending Democracy & Delivering Services
• Chris Swanson: Transformational Leadership in Public Safety
• Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

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Garlin Gilchrist: Data-Driven Problem Solver

Background & Approach

• [00:36] Gilchrist, Michigan’s Lieutenant Governor and software engineer by training, emphasizes a “people-first, data-driven” approach.
• He is the first computer engineer/software developer to hold statewide office in the U.S., shaping his orientation toward problem-solving, systems thinking, and technology’s impact.

On AI & Technology

• [05:16] Plans to ensure that “the technology companies do not get to dictate the terms of the lives of Michiganders.”
• Views AI as a tool for empowerment, not replacement—referencing Steve Jobs (“bicycles for the mind”).
• Pledges to “stand up for people first” and protect Michigan workers from adverse impacts of automation.

Major Achievements as Lt. Governor

• [06:52] Affordable Housing: Led the largest historic investment in Michigan’s Housing Trust Fund ($250M), resulting in 40,000+ new homes in two years.
  • Memorable story of a mother needing affordable housing for her adult daughter (07:19).
• Childcare: Launched “Caring for My Future,” exceeding goals by opening 1,300 childcare facilities in 13 months.
• Broadband Access: Connected hundreds of thousands to high-speed internet, improving equity of opportunity.
• Criminal Justice Reform: Created nation’s “most progressive, expansive and inclusive automatic criminal record clearance program,” clearing 4 million offenses and helping ~400,000 people reenter civic and economic life (09:21).

Vision as Governor

• [10:29] Wants a Michigan “where everyone knows they can afford to stay here and succeed.”
  • Universal Childcare: To make Michigan the 2nd state guaranteeing universal childcare.
  • Fully Funded Public Schools: Pledges to finally fully fund public education in Michigan history.
  • Debt-Free College: Ensures anyone can attend college without incurring debt.
  • Affordable Housing Expansion: Invest in renovation and new builds statewide.

Personal ‘Why’

• [13:12] Moved away from Michigan in 2005 to work at Microsoft but returned out of commitment to his community. Wants a Michigan where “no one has to leave to chase opportunity.”

Getting Involved & Personal Side

• [16:31] Social: TikTok (@GarlandGilchristMI), Instagram (@Garlandi)
• [16:59] Secret Superpower: “Expert story reader” with many voices for his kids’ bedtime stories.

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Jocelyn Benson: Defending Democracy & Delivering Services

Background & Approach

• [17:35] Michigan Secretary of State, former law professor and law school dean; lauded for expanding ballot access and standing firm on election integrity.
• Known for “cross-partisan coalition-building”—winning statewide by 14 points in 2022, including GOP-leaning counties.

Election Integrity & Personal Courage

• [19:56] Overhauled DMV to improve trust, which “enabled us to also transform democracy.”
• Highlighted highest voter turnout in state history (2018, 2020).
• Faced direct threats during the 2020 presidential aftermath, including armed protesters outside her home. Her takeaway: “As leaders, we must stand firm with truth, law, and justice, and march forward anyway” (20:59).

Vision as Governor

• [23:12] “Costs down, jobs and prosperity on the rise”—“a place where any of us, including our kids, would want to call home.”
  • Personal motivation: As a mom, wants her son to choose Michigan as home in the future.
  • Government should “show up for folks, save them time, save them money, and make their lives easier.”
  • Cites track record of efficiency and accountability at the DMV as a model.

Health Care

• [25:06] Calls ensuring “quality health care is accessible, affordable and fair for everyone” job number one for the next governor.
• Will modernize state’s health agencies, create a Healthcare Affordability Board, and enforce a Patient’s Bill of Rights to “cap skyrocketing prescription costs” and guarantee transparent, doctor-patient driven care.

What Sets Her Apart

• [26:33] Only candidate who's managed a major state agency, “stood up to bullies in the White House,” and consistently built bipartisan coalitions to win in a purple state.
• Describes her leadership style as “collaborative and transparent,” with accountability as a cornerstone.

Michigan’s Potential

• [28:11] Sees Michigan as having “all the tools and resources” to “be a driving economic force for the Midwest.” Cites abundant water, universities, and a strong workforce.

Personal ‘Why’

• [31:10] “The eyes of those kids who will inherit what we leave behind are on us now…It’s on us to make that future happen for them.”

Getting Involved & Personal Side

• [34:05] Website: JocelynBenson.com
• [33:00] Secret Superpower: “Resilience” drawn from being an avid marathon runner (including while eight months pregnant).
• [33:57] Enjoys Beshear’s Thanksgiving turkey skills.

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Chris Swanson: Transformational Leadership in Public Safety

Background & Philosophy

• [34:37] Genesee County Sheriff, noted for reform-minded leadership, abolition of business-as-usual incarceration models, and “community-based public safety.”

On Public Safety & Criminal Justice

• [36:14] Launched “IGNITE” program: instead of solely incarcerating, focus on “education, mindset, and culture change.”
  • Offers inmates GEDs, diplomas, and trade certificates with direct employment pipelines.
  • [37:14] Lowering recidivism (Brown, Harvard, Michigan study: 20% drop). States this could mean $800–900M in prison savings, which could be redirected to address homelessness, addiction, and other social needs.

Leadership in Crisis

• [38:13] May 30, 2020 (George Floyd protests): Swanson walked with protesters, “neutralizing” potential violence and showing compassion and unity in action. “Set a tone—you can do it with the heart.”

Vision as Governor

• [40:04] Reduce cost of living for working-class Michiganders (e.g., lowering licensing fees, reducing gas taxes, waiving state income tax for those making <$30k).
• Focused on direct relief: “If a governor is able to save $300 to $500/month for each individual, think about what that can translate to…”

Personal Connections

• [41:06] Son volunteered in Hindman, KY post-flooding; Swanson himself completed Ironman races (Louisville).
• [43:48] Motivated by problem-solving for others (“bring order out of chaos”); runs with high energy and a focus on common sense/grounded leadership.

Building a Diverse Team

• [45:05] Emphasizes putting the “right people in the right spots” and building a coalition for results—“common sense and common ground.”

Getting Involved & Personal Side

• [47:10] Website: SwansonfromMichigan.com; active on social media.
• [46:41] Secret Superpower: Energy—“I can bring calmness into people’s lives and I can bring energy to people that feel like they have nothing.”
• [48:00] Family: Met his wife (a social worker) “in jail”—married 31 years; two sons (one in dental school, one just married).

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Garlin Gilchrist

• “We need people in public service who the big tech companies can’t bully and can’t lie to.” (04:03)
• “I want a Michigan where everyone knows they can afford to stay here and succeed.” (10:29)
• “People from Detroit change the world, which means people come to Detroit to change the world.” (15:05)
• Secret Superpower: “I am an expert story reader… The kids love the stories. I got voices. Whatever the story calls for.” (16:59)

Jocelyn Benson

• “When people believe in government as a tool that can make their lives better, they’re more likely to participate in it.” (19:56)
• “When armed protesters showed up at my home… what I learned… was the need to have the courage, the moral courage, to stand up to anyone and protect the people and their voice.” (20:59)
• “We have all the tools and resources we need here in this state to be a driving economic force for the Midwest.” (28:11)
• Secret Superpower: “I ran the Boston Marathon eight months pregnant. … Every hill that we run, you use it to make those muscles stronger for next time.” (33:00)

Chris Swanson

• “Instead of incarcerating, let’s educate. That’s what social justice looks like.” (36:14)
• “Prepare in peace to perform in chaos.” (43:48)
• Secret Superpower: “I can bring calmness into people’s lives and I can bring energy to people that feel like they have nothing.” (46:41)
• Family Story: “I met my wife in jail. … She was a social worker.” (48:00)

Fun & Relatable Moments

• Beshear’s rivalry with Gilchrist about Michigan universities: “You had me until the best university in Michigan. Just remember, trying to tell the truth.” (12:36)
• Swanson reminiscing about Ironman Louisville and volunteering in Kentucky, connecting with Beshear’s own state pride.
• Running theme of “secret superpowers,” adding warmth and humor.

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Timestamps for Key Segments

| Segment | Timestamp | |----------------------------------------------------------|-------------| | Garlin Gilchrist introduction & background | 03:46–04:03 | | Gilchrist on AI, tech, and economy | 05:16–06:35 | | Gilchrist’s work as Lt. Governor (housing, childcare…) | 06:52–10:16 | | Gilchrist’s vision and personal ‘why’ | 10:29–14:55 | | Jocelyn Benson introduction & election integrity | 17:35–19:56 | | Benson on running state services/elections | 19:56–21:44 | | Benson’s vision as governor | 23:12–24:35 | | Benson on health care | 25:06–26:16 | | Benson on leading a diverse state & her ‘why’ | 26:33–32:25 | | Chris Swanson introduction & approach to public safety | 34:37–36:07 | | Swanson on jail reform & community trust | 36:14–38:58 | | Swanson’s economic vision & personal connections | 40:04–43:48 | | Swanson on team building, superpower, and family | 45:05–48:28 |

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Summary & Takeaway

This episode offers deep insight into the backgrounds, governing philosophies, and motivations of Michigan’s three leading Democratic gubernatorial candidates. Each brings a unique lens—Gilchrist’s tech-savvy systemic approach, Benson’s battles for democracy and efficiency, Swanson’s lived reform and high-octane energy. The episode deftly blends policy with personal stories, providing listeners with the substance necessary to understand and engage with this critical primary—one poised to influence not just Michigan, but the national stage in 2026 and beyond.

Transcript

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[Andy Beshear]

Welcome to the Andy Beshear Podcast. This is season two, episode two of a season we're calling prime for 2026. This is where we introduce you to Democratic primary candidates from around the country so that you can get an inside look at important races. This episode we have one of the most important primaries in the country, and that is for Michigan governor. Michigan is an incredibly important state, not just in 2026, but also, if you're interested in 2028. Its current governor, Gretchen Whitmer, a good friend of mine, a great governor, is term limited and we have a really competitive primary. When you look at the candidates, you've got Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist, you have Jocelyn Benson, the Secretary of State, and you have Sheriff Chris Swanson from one of the largest counties in Michigan. Each are thought to be transformational in their roles. Each are thought to be real leaders, not just in Michigan, but nationwide. So today we're going to bring you about 15 minutes with each of them so so that you can get to know them a little bit better. You can hear what they want to do for Michigan and you can decide if you want to get involved. 2026 is going to be absolutely critical for the future of our country. It's going to be critical to flip the US House of Representatives so that we have a separate and independent branch of government that will make sure that they institute the checks and balances that our founders put into the Constitution and that is their job. But Also these governors races, 36 across the country are absolutely essential. Who the governor is impacts the lives of the citizens of that state more than any other official. And Democratic governors get it done. We create more jobs. We expand and not contract health care. We put in the real investments for long term, better public safety. We're pro public education. We make sure that our people get the essential services they need. So these races are important. This is a really exciting episode. This is going to be a feature episode as we move forward and introduce you again to primary candidates from around the country. I hope you'll enjoy it. Let's get it started. Foreign. Our first candidate today on the Andy Beshear podcast is Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garland Gilchrist II. He is Michigan's 64th Lieutenant Governor and a lifelong Detroiter. He's a former software engineer and public servant, and he's focused his work on expanding economic opportunity, protecting access to clean water, strengthening infrastructure, and advancing equity across the state. Garland brings a data driven, people first approach to governing Michigan's future. Garland, welcome to the podcast.

[Garland Gilchrist]

It's so great to be here with you.

[Andy Beshear]

So, Garland, let's start out. I mean, your background in computer science is so different than a lot of public servants. Tell us how that's kind of defined you and how it led you to becoming a lieutenant governor.

[Garland Gilchrist]

You're right, Andy. Look, there have been exactly zero computer engineers, software developers, programmers who serve in statewide elected office in America. And so I think it brings a different kind of energy. I'm a problem solver, a solution builder, somebody who makes things happen and makes systems work for people. And frankly, how this world is changing where more technology is involved in more parts of life and it's frankly eating more things, eating more information, eating more energy resources. I think we need people in public service who, who understand that realm, who the big tech companies can't bully and can't lie to, someone who can sit at the table with them and get a good deal for people. So that's how it shapes my service. And I started this, frankly, when I was little. My grandma bought me a computer when I was five years old, made me the first kid on my block on the east side of Detroit to get a computer. And I fell in love with that thing. And I loved it all the way through. How to take it apart, put it together. My first job at 16 was building computers and I installed them in rec centers across the city of Detroit. I so I love what technology can do for people, but I also know how it can harm people. And I want to be the governor of Michigan to protect people from those harms and position them to use that technology to make people's lives better.

[Andy Beshear]

So that certainly leads into AI. And I can say as a governor, it's a complex topic. We know it's a big part of the future. It brings some advantages, I think about medical research, but it also brings some concerns because if you're elected governor of Michigan, what's going to be your approach to AI?

[Garland Gilchrist]

People first, people centered. The technology companies do not get to dictate the terms of the lives of Michiganders or, frankly, anybody in this country. If we stand tall and recognize that we are the ones who create the value, we are the ones whose creativity and ingenuity will point the technology in the right direction. I think about this the same way Steve Jobs thought about it. He saw personal computers as bicycles for the mind, meaning they were tools to help us be more effective, not to replace us. So I'm going to make sure that people in Michigan, a state that's been impacted by how automation has impacted manufacturing for generations, a state where our agricultural sector has been impacted by technology in a positive way, we can use technology to make good things happen for people, to create more opportunity, not less, and to not let the companies that are driving this technology and developing it take advantage of our people or our resources. So as governor, I'll stand up for people first.

[Andy Beshear]

You've been Lieutenant Governor serving alongside my friend Gretchen Whitmer, who's my vice chair on the Democratic Governors Association. Tell our listeners what role you took as Lieutenant governor, what areas you stepped up and led in.

[Garland Gilchrist]

First of all, congratulations on being the chair of DGA 2026. And Governor Whitmer is excited to be a vice chair. I know that we talked about it when she assumed that role. So as Lieutenant governor, in addition to presiding over the state Senate, which I've done, I also have taken on some really important areas. One has been really leading the new investments that the state of Michigan has made in affordable housing in every community across all 83 counties in Michigan. I talk to people who are worried about how much housing costs. I talked to, you know, I'll give you an example. I met this family where the mom was really frustrated because her daughter had moved in, you know, after she, you know, Kevin working and gotten evicted from her apartment, moved in with her. But of course, she brought her boyfriend along with her, which meant she had another grown man who she had to feed and in her house, which meant that she had to end up getting a second refrigerator in her garage. Now, why is that crazy? Because when utility bills are going up and getting super expensive, another refrigerator in addition to another mouth to feed was real expensive. So she wasn't having it. She was really upset about it. She said, we need to get more affordable housing in this community so my daughter can get the hell out of my house. I think about it in terms of making sure that we can just take care of people. And so that's why I drove the biggest investment in our state's housing trust fund in the history of the fund $250 million and now $50 million ongoing to make sure we can build more homes. And that's led to 40,000 plus homes being built in the last two years. The fastest pace we've ever built new housing units in the state of Michigan. I've also focused on childcare. Look, Michigan, I started a program called Caring for my future. In 2021, we were supposed we were planning to open up 1,000 childcare facilities in two years. Well, because of the effectiveness and efficiency of what our team did, we opened up 1300 childcare facilities in 13 months because we have that much demand for childcare. There are families that are leaving communities because they can't afford for a place for their kid to be, to learn, to be taken care of, to be set up for success at school. So I've helped to lead that effort. I also have led the effort to connect hundreds of thousands of Michiganders to the Internet for the first time. Fast Internet, high bandwidth, high speeds, that's affordable and in some cases even free so they can participate in this 21st century economy, get access to healthcare services and jobs and educational opportunities. Just changing Michigan for the better. So my job is to make sure I can create the conditions for people in Michigan to be successful. And the last illustration of that is the work that I've done with on our criminal justice reform work and modernize our criminal legal system. I created the most progressive, expansive and inclusive automatic criminal record clearance program in the nation that has led to 4 million offenses being cleared off of people's records after they hadn't committed another offense for five years. It's led to almost 400,000 people being able to fully participate in the economy and civic and economic life, be reunited with their families, go to school, get an apartment, get a home, start a business. These people are people we need in Michigan's economy and in our lives. And they will make a million people job eligible in 10 years.

[Andy Beshear]

So very impressive record as lieutenant governor. But as you know, all races are about the future. So what is your vision that you would bring as governor of Michigan?

[Garland Gilchrist]

It's very simple. I want a Michigan where everyone knows that they can afford to stay here and succeed and that everyone has a chance to answer yes to the question of is Michigan the best place for me to build my family and my future? That starts with people knowing that when they're ready to build that family that they will be guaranteed childcare. I'll make Michigan the second state in the country to guarantee childcare for every single family in Michigan. That Also helps us not only make sure that parents have someplace they can frankly put their kids while they're going to work, but it makes them more productive. It makes them more able to start that business they've been sitting on but they couldn't afford to do because they didn't know what they would do for childcare. It gives them a pathway to be able to be their best and whole self. In Michigan, that also helps position our kids to be able to roll into our universal pre K program and roll into a finally fully funded public education program. I'm a public school kid. Detroit Public Schools, Farmington Public Schools, the greatest university in the history of the world, the University of Michigan like public schools being fully funded positions our state and our people for success and growth and opportunity and innovation. I'll fully fund them for the first time ever in the history of the state of Michigan. I want folks to roll into a chance to go to college debt free guarantee because you shouldn't have to go on go into debt to take a bet on yourself and your education and your dreams. It'll lead to people making more money, increased household incomes, which means increased quality of life, people starting more businesses. That means more job creation because the majority of jobs that are going to be created going forward in the next 10 years are going to come from new businesses, not legacy businesses. And also finally, I want to make sure that everyone in Michigan has a home. I talked about this problem with affordable housing across all 83 counties in the state of Michigan. We can do something about it. We can build more homes and more types of homes. We can make it easier for people to afford to get into those new homes or those renovated homes. We, we got a housing stock that is ripe for renovation all across the state of Michigan and we can invest in that and build it. That's what I'll do as governor.

[Andy Beshear]

So you had me until the best university in Michigan. Peace. So just remember trying to tell the truth.

[Garland Gilchrist]

Andy, I'm sorry.

[Andy Beshear]

Jamal Mashburn almost beat the Fab Five on his Almost. Almost true. So we as Democrats talk about the what a lot because we've got these things that we really want to do. But on the podcast we also like to focus on the why. What's your why? What drives you so much that you'd leave a lucrative area with computer science and software development and the rest and say I want to be governor of Michigan.

[Garland Gilchrist]

You know, Andy, I'll tell you a story. So you know, I grew up and was born and bred in the state of Michigan. And Detroit in its suburbs. I went to University of Michigan. And when I was thinking about where I wanted to build my future, I wanted to be a software developer when I graduated from college in 2005. And I thought at that time that in order for me to be the professional I wanted to be, that I had to go to another part of the country to do that. It broke my heart to have to say yes to some place that wasn't Michigan to build my career. I don't want anybody to have a reason to say no to Michigan. I remember the conversation I had with my mother when I said, mama, I'm looking at this and I want to work for Microsoft, and I got to go to Seattle to do that. I remember that look in her eye. It broke her heart because she was like, am I ever going to see my grandkids when he has them? Am I ever going to see my only child as consistently as I want to? Every parent in Michigan has that anxiety. I spoke to a dad from Escanaba, Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula, who was worried about his daughter leaving and never coming home. Because, you know, when somebody leaves a community, when a kid leaves a community, the community dies a little bit when that happens. I don't want any community to die like that. Instead, I want our communities to be places where people are excited to be, that has an economy that's diverse enough to. To have a place for everybody. Because I know that Michigan is big enough to include everybody in this future. I came home to make that happen for Michigan 11 and a half years ago, and I'm proud to do it as lieutenant governor today, and I'm excited to do it as governor tomorrow.

[Andy Beshear]

For all of our listeners that are outside of Michigan, give them your pitch for getting involved in this race and supporting Garland Gilchrist.

[Garland Gilchrist]

Michigan is a state that does and will matter. And in 2026, in 2028, and every year beyond. Michigan is decisive in presidential elections. It is decisive in our culture, Whether it's Motown music, the invention of the assembly line, or the innovations that are gonna drive the future of this country. If you can make something happen in Michigan, then, you know you can make something happen that's gonna change the world. People who make things happen here, who hustle harder, who build and who break things, they're the ones who invent the future. And I think if you want to come and really be a part of something that moves people, moves ideas, moves goods, moves services, moves culture, this is the best place to do it. People from Detroit change the world, which means people come to Detroit to change the world. That's true for the entire state of Michigan. We need you to be part of it. And politically, right now, this is a decisive year in our state. The leadership in Michigan is going to determine the trajectory of the entire Midwest and. And the direction that this country goes. I want to be that leader. I want to stand tall alongside you and alongside every Single Michigander, all 10 million of us who are hungry to create that future. And I need you to be part of it. It's up to us to make the right thing happen. Let's come and do it here and build a dream of health and wealth for everyone.

[Andy Beshear]

Join [e-mail] tell us outside of garlandgilchrist.com how our listeners can follow you on social media and get to know more about you.

[Garland Gilchrist]

Holla at me on TikTok. Garland Gilchrist MI on Instagram at garlandi. Those are the best places to see me. We got content for days that talks about ideas, that talk about what's important to Michiganders. Have a little fun with it, too. So come and join me on social media. It's the best place to stay current.

[Andy Beshear]

Final question, we ask this of every guest. What is your secret superpower? What is that thing that no one knows about to that you're really good at?

[Garland Gilchrist]

Oh, my gosh. I am an expert story reader.

[Jocelyn Benson]

Oh.

[Andy Beshear]

So for your kids?

[Garland Gilchrist]

Yeah, yeah, kids. The kids love the stories. I got voices. You do all the voices? I got all the voices.

[Andy Beshear]

Like, how many you got? Like 20 voices or more.

[Garland Gilchrist]

Whatever the story calls for. Know what I'm saying? Wizard of Oz got a lot of characters.

[Chris Swanson]

That's impressive.

[Andy Beshear]

Well, Garland, thank you for being on the podcast. Best of luck to you and your rights.

[Garland Gilchrist]

Thank you, Governor.

[Andy Beshear]

Our next candidate for Michigan governor on the Andy Beshear podcast is Jocelyn Benson. Jocelyn is Michigan's Secretary of State, where she oversees elections and motor vehicle services for millions of residents. A former law professor and, I believe, dean of a law school and nationally recognized expert on democracy and voting rights, she's led efforts to expand access to the ballot, protect election integrity, and modernize state services. She's also stood up to President Trump through his direct attacks on the election in Michigan. So we know she's tough. Jocelyn, welcome to the podcast.

[Jocelyn Benson]

Thank you so much for having me. Governor, it's an honor to be here.

[Andy Beshear]

So, Jocelyn, you are currently Secretary of State, and I know you believe in what your current office does. So much so that I know the first time you ran didn't turn out the way you wanted, but you did it again and won those next two races. Tell us what you learned through that process.

[Jocelyn Benson]

I learned how to. How to stand firm, to stand your ground, to stand up for what's right even when the stakes are high, and to really ensure that when you build a statewide campus campaign to lead government well, to make government work well for everyone, that you're really building that cross partisan coalition, talking to Democrats, Independents, Republicans, really hearing them, listening to them, developing a plan to solve the problems that all of us are struggling with and then executing. And when I developed that plan, presented it to voters in 2018, they voted overwhelmingly to support me. And to the point where in my last election in 2022, I won by 14 points, including in counties that no other Democrat won. And it just underscores how important it is that we show up everywhere, that we listen to everyone and that we serve as public servants everyone equally, regardless of whether they have a D or an R or an I after their name.

[Andy Beshear]

You have a really impressive record as Secretary of State from revolutionizing voting in Michigan, making it easier, not harder to vote, but also standing up to probably the toughest, nastiest attacks I've ever seen on an office or on a state and voting rights in that state. Tell our listeners a little bit about your term as Secretary of State.

[Jocelyn Benson]

Well, yeah, as Secretary of State, I do two things. I run the DMV and I oversee our elections. So as the head of the dmv, I'm very popular. Everyone loves going to the dmv. But we actually, as you mentioned, transformed that agency and made it work well for folks and thereby built trust with folks in, in our system in my leadership. And that enabled us to also transform democracy. Because when people believe in government as a tool that can make their lives better, they're more likely to participate in it and be a part of it. So we built a really strong democracy in Michigan, having back to back highest turnout elections in our state's history. But that all came to a head in 2020 when the President, Donald Trump, did not like that he lost Michigan. And so the attacks just came as part of a multifaceted national effort to delegitimize democracy and to further a political agenda because one guy was upset that he lost an election. And we're still enduring the ramifications, those attacks on democracy today. But what I learned in that, and armed protesters showed up at my home on a snowy December evening with guns, challenging me and threatening me and my family. What I learned in that moment was that to truly ensure our government works for everyone, democracy works for everyone, we as leaders need to be willing to stand firm with the truth in the law and the justice on our side and march forward anyway, because that's what we signed up to do. So it built a courage of fortitude in me to stand up to bullies, no matter how wealthy, no matter how powerful, when they try to interfere with the rights and the freedoms of our citizens. And I'm proud to continue to do that as I now work for governor. But as Secretary of State, it's been critical in these formative years to make sure that I know not just what's at stake, but how important it is to have the courage, the moral courage, to stand firm and stand up to anyone and protect the people and their voice.

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[Andy Beshear]

That experience certainly prepares you right now to be a Democratic governor. And if you can run a dmv, I think you can run anything. Tell us a little bit about how, you know, you view the, the job as governor a little bit differently. And what's your vision? I mean, what, what would you be doing day one and what would you want to see as you end, say, your first term, what you would have accomplished?

[Jocelyn Benson]

What I want to see at the end of my first term are costs down, cost of living down, but also jobs and prosperity on the rise and to really have Michigan, a place where any of us, including our kids, would want to call home. I'm a mom of a 9 year old little boy and in 10 years he's going to be deciding what he does with his future. So for me, this is personal Everything we do over the next decade will define whether or not he chooses Michigan as a place where he wants to raise his family and call home. And to the extent that we aren't that place right now, people are struggling. They're struggling to pay for childcare, struggling to buy a home, a community they want to live in and then afford the energy costs of eating that. Hell, all of that requires a state government that's willing to show up for folks and save them time, save them money and make their lives easier. That's what I've done as Secretary of State. And I've done it at a time, frankly, where, you know, it feels like in many ways at the national level, government is showing up everywhere. We don't want it. No. Actually need it.

[Chris Swanson]

Right.

[Jocelyn Benson]

And so I think as governors, we can actually flip that model and say, look, in this state, government's going to show up for you when you need it, protect you, keep you safe, save you money, save you time, help you get a good paying job and then get out of the way so that you could prosper and thrive. That's my vision for governing. And it's personal to make that happen for me because I want my kid to live that.

[Andy Beshear]

In our state, one of the pieces of affordability is health care. And you be coming in as governor at a time when health care access is under more attack than at any point in my lifetime. The big ugly bill is going to hit rural hospitals like a sledgehammer. The failure to extend tax credits for those that are on the exchanges are going to result in more people losing their coverage. What are your plans to ensure that more people in Michigan can access health care?

[Jocelyn Benson]

I think it's job number one for the next governor to make sure quality health care is accessible, affordable and fair for everyone, that every Michigander has a right to affordable quality health care. And we make that real because of all the risks that we're seeing of coverage loss, premiums on the rise, skyrocketing prescription costs, and a system that too often puts profits over patients and allows insurance companies to be making healthcare decisions when they should be made between a doctor and a patient. And so what we need to do in Michigan is empower our Health and Human services department to enable efficient, accountable and fair health coverage by modernizing how it's run, which I know how to do based on my work as Secretary of State and develop a service driven, patient focused state healthcare agency that will, among other things, establish a healthcare affordability board and a patient's bill of rights for healthcare to bring together health providers and patients and develop a plan to reduce health care costs, cap skyra, skyrocketing prescription costs and among other things, ensure that medical decisions are made with transparent data and presented in a way that is understandable, accountable and appealable if it's unfair or unjust.

[Andy Beshear]

So you were in a big primary, which is good for democracy, but never feels that way as a candidate. I had a real significant primary when I ran for governor the first time. Tell us what you think differentiates you from your opponents.

[Jocelyn Benson]

Well, for me, we're all friends and I say that often. We're all friends here in our primary in Michigan. And whoever gets to the other side of the primary will all lock arms and run forth together to success. But for me, this is my fourth statewide campaign. Every time I've been on the ballot, I've gained support from more voters throughout the state. And as I mentioned earlier, two years ago, I won the state by 14 points. I'm the only one running for governor who has run a state agency. I'm the only one who has stood up to bullies in the White House to protect our voters rights and freedoms. And I'm the only one who knows how to make sure we build those cross partisan coalitions that are necessary to win statewide and govern well. And again, as the CEO of one of our state's largest agencies, I've developed a real track record of working with reasonable leaders on both sides of the aisle to get things done and get things through a divided legislature in a purple state with the view of just making sure government is working well for everyone and that we're developing a data driven, effective approach to getting things done.

[Andy Beshear]

How would you describe your leadership style?

[Jocelyn Benson]

Collaborative and transparent.

[Andy Beshear]

They're both important.

[Jocelyn Benson]

Yes, I would add the dose of accountability because I think you set goals and then you meet them and you seek accountability when you don't. And so I think those three things, collaboration with others, transparency, and then being accountable to the people, holding others accountable to you, that's how you actually get things done and do so in a way that generates trust.

[Andy Beshear]

So a lot of races are about the challenges you're ready to address, the things that maybe make people pessimistic. What is something about Michigan that you're optimistic about?

[Jocelyn Benson]

We have all the tools and resources we need here in this state to be a driving economic force for the Midwest region and for the entire nation. We've got 20% of the world's fresh water and a number of other great natural resources, international borders, one of the highest airports per capita rate in the country. We've got some of the best, strongest, hardworking people in the, in America. And above all that, we've got amazing universities and research institutions that could help us be at the forefront of generating new ideas, new business growth and stronger, stronger outcomes, higher wages and cost cutting ideas that we can implement in the state. So all that together to me gives Michigan a tremendous opportunity to lead the nation on a number of things, while also in this moment being led by a governor that will stand up to anyone who would try to rip away the safety of our communities or our, or dampen our rights of freedoms to further their own political agenda.

[Andy Beshear]

You do have those borders. I was just up in Detroit with you for a big event and the hotel they had us in, you could see Canada from the window. I felt like Sarah Palin, but different country and definitely a different person. Tell our listeners who are outside of Michigan why they should be interested in this primary and why they should support Jocelyn Benson.

[Jocelyn Benson]

Well, our race will have national implications. And I've seen firsthand, we saw in the last two presidential elections how critical it was to have state leaders in place to stand guard over the rule of law, over our, the safety of our cities, citizens, the safety of our votes and the health of our democracy. So now as we head into 2026, where the stage will be set for 2028 and beyond, we need to ensure battleground states like Michigan are led by Democratic governors who know how to run things well, get things done, demonstrate the government can show up when you need it and they get out of the way and provide a sharp contrast to the cruel, chaotic policies we're seeing coming out of Washington right now in a way that could hopefully inspire voters, not just Michigan, but in states elsewhere, of the need to turn the page on this dark chapter of our, of our history that the Trump administration has created and instead lead the nation forward into a brighter day, stronger economy, and in a future that is defined by us, by our voices, not by corporate interests or other types of corrupt, corrosive elements.

[Andy Beshear]

So two questions we ask every one of our guests. The first one is about the why. You know, as Democrats, we're very good about the what. You know, we run on real policy, wanting to get real results. But what's the why? The why that led you to run a couple times just to get this job you've got, the why that wants to make you go through another campaign. The why that makes you want to deal even if people show up armed and protesting outside your house so what is Jocelyn Benson's?

[Jocelyn Benson]

Why? Well, you know, my parents were special education teachers, and I see them and their struggles and their needs in the eyes of every educator and worker in our state. And my kid is 9 years old, and I see his future intertwined with the future of every child in our state. And for me, in this moment, as someone who started my career in Montgomery, Alabama, working to learn from the civil rights leaders of the past, I know the eyes of everyone who marched and fought and bled so that we could live in a democracy where people's voices rule the day and our economy has an opportunity for everyone. Their eyes are on us now as we decide who we will be in the future, but also the eyes of those kids, those young people who will inherit what we leave behind and will take the banner forward. Their eyes are on us now, too, in this moment to say, what are you going to do in 2026 to preserve our historic gains, but also ensure we're preserving everything we are as a nation for our future. I will stand up to stand at that bridge to fight forward and march forward any day of the week for a future in which my kid and your kids and all of our kids have an opportunity to thrive, no matter where they choose to live, no matter what job they choose to take on, it's on us to make that future happen for them. And that's why I'm in this race.

[Andy Beshear]

I did that Selma march last year at the 60th anniversary. Just transformational. So the next question is more about Jocelyn Benson, the person. So we always ask people what their secret superpower is. What are you really good at? That no one knows. I mean, Wes Moore apparently can cook, but. But he also wore his clothes backwards during the crisscross days. My wife can pack a suitcase like nobody's business. Amy Klobuchar apparently doesn't need to sleep. That would actually be a good, productive superpower. So what's yours?

[Jocelyn Benson]

Resilience, but built through. I'm a runner, and I run two marathons a year. I run every day. And I ran the Boston Marathon eight months pregnant. I don't quit. I take everything one step at a time. But being a marathoner has taught me not just the power of resilience and perseverance, but how important it is for us to take challenges and actually use them to make us stronger. Every hill that we run, you use it to make those muscles stronger so that the next time you hit a hill, you can run up it even faster. So I see challenges as opportunities to get stronger obstacles as opportunities to make us better. And I feel like that's a real superpower for enabling you to overcome challenging times and also just stay the course and not waver. And that's what you also need to be able to get things done for the people we serve.

[Andy Beshear]

That one is much more useful than mine. I cook the Thanksgiving turkey better than anyone I know. It's good one day a year.

[Jocelyn Benson]

Very useful, brings people together around the table, unifies it's a stern skill.

[Andy Beshear]

It at least makes my family get along for a little bit. Tell our listeners how they can follow you in your campaign.

[Jocelyn Benson]

Well, you can go to my website, Jocelyn Benson.com to learn more about me my campaign Get Involved, Help Us Out. This race will have a national impact on the future of our democracy and so I hope you'll help us win and make sure we can work with great governors all across this nation to turn the page and bring a brighter future for our country.

[Andy Beshear]

Thanks for being on the podcast and best of luck.

[Jocelyn Benson]

Thanks for having me.

[Andy Beshear]

Our next candidate on this prime for 2026 edition of the Andy Beshear Podcast is Sheriff Chris Swanson. He's the elected Sheriff of Genesee County, Michigan where he's focused on community based public safety, accountability and rebuilding trust between law enforcement and the people they serve. A longtime law enforcement professional and reform minded leader, Swanson is known for emphasizing prevention, transparency and keeping communities safe while respecting civil rights. Sheriff, welcome to the podcast.

[Chris Swanson]

It is an honor. Governor, thank you so much and it's nice seeing you again. I saw you last October of 2025 in Detroit.

[Andy Beshear]

That's right. That was a great event. Sheriff, let's start off by talking about your current job. Public safety is so important and it's on everyone's mind not just whether they're safe, but whether they feel safe. Talk to us about your approach towards public safety.

[Chris Swanson]

Well, I think we saw that in November 25when you saw people across the country say public safety, affordability and the working class are their top three most important issues as a sheriff of a big county in the state of Michigan. You know, after a water crisis in 2016, the George Floyd protest, that we decided to walk together instead of riot. Those are the things that people want and like you said, they not only want to know they're safe, but they want to feel they're safe. And that's where leadership comes in. At the executive level.

[Andy Beshear]

You've emphasized community based public safety. Tell us what that means in practice.

[Chris Swanson]

Well, Governor, I think anybody here can remember when they Were given a second chance. I know I can. And after the George Floyd protest, which is just on the heels of a water crisis, we launched what's called ignite inmate growth nationally and intentionally through education. It's a mindset, it's a culture change that instead of incarcerating, let's educate. So September of 2020, we launched it, and now we're giving GEDS diplomas. We're allowing people to go through welding classes that have a direct entry into the apprenticeship program through the iron workers nationwide. These are the things that break homelessness and addictions and generational incarceration. When that happens, that's what social justice looks like. It drops crime. It drops the. The population into jail, and everybody wins.

[Andy Beshear]

Now, as governor, you'd have a chance to do that at the prison level. The idea that you reduce recidivism and a future crime never happens. There's no victim, There's. There's no grieving family, 100%.

[Chris Swanson]

And when I tell people if we reduce the amount of people going to jail, it's because they're breaking the law less, they're becoming better at not falling back to their addictions. And when that happens, it was studied by Brown, Harvard, and Michigan. It's dropped it over 20%. It saves each individual, the community cost about $7,200. So there's an economic benefit. And now, as a governor, there's 32 prisons throughout the state of Michigan. It's got a $2.2 billion budget. Imagine if we were able to drop that down by 20%, what we could do with those eight, $900 million, whether it's homelessness or fighting the addiction issue, all the things that governors like you pick up on that need to be funded, we can do that by creating a safer community and bringing less people incarcerated through education.

[Andy Beshear]

So you've been viewed nationally as a transformational sheriff. Tell us how you want to take that and move it into the governor's office.

[Chris Swanson]

Well, I think people should go back and look at one's actions versus their words. And in May 30, 2020, when George Floyd was murdered just a few days before, here in Flint, we set a tone. Instead of rioting, which people expected Flint to do, we walked with the people. And when they said, walk with us, I said, let's walk. That neutralized the entire issue. It didn't take away the problems, but it at least gave those protesters and those like me who had righteous anger a pathway. And so as governor, when you have these moments where you can say, there is a better way to unite. You can do it with public safety and you can do it with the heart. Then people respond to that and that's what we get to do as sheriffs and eventually as the governor. It's leadership.

[Andy Beshear]

So during these times where some worry the American dream is slipping away, when things cost too much, tell us your vision as someone running for governor of Michigan and how you're going to help everyday Americans have that life that's a little bit better and a little bit easier.

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[Jocelyn Benson]

Hi, I'm Angie Hicks, co founder of Angie. One thing I've learned is that you buy a house but you make it a home. And for decades, Angie's helped millions of homeowners hire skilled pros for the projects that matter. Get all your jobs done [e-mail] well.

[Chris Swanson]

I think everybody can appreciate if a governor is able to save three to four $500 a month for each individual. Think about what that can translate to after 12 months and that is reducing licensing fee, reducing gas taxes. That even though that we use them for road funding. How do we lessen the burden on individuals, things that people pay for on a statewide. How do we give them a little bit of break? So it kind of balances out the whole year for people that make less than $30,000 gross, why don't we waive state income tax to give them an opportunity to get up on their feet, whether it's a single parent or somebody who lost their job or even somebody who's a widower. My mom is 85 years old and works at JCPenney. She makes $15 and 35 cents an hour. These are individuals who are starting to grind it out and try to work hard. And you see that in Kentucky. Why don't we help them get to the next level and so they can thrive. These are the things the governor is able to do, even working with the legislature.

[Andy Beshear]

So I'm told you have some connection to Nott County, Kentucky.

[Chris Swanson]

Yes, I do. I have two boys. I'm so proud of my youngest In August of 22 came and I've taken them all over the country on missions trips to foreign countries in the third world nations. And they said, hey, there's an opportunity for us to go down to a church to help the folks that have been impacted by the floods just like you did as a governor. And my son and his friends drove down there in a truck. They went to a church in Hinman, Kentucky in Hindman. Yeah, Big Branch Baptist. Yeah, Hyneman Big Branch Baptist Church.

[Andy Beshear]

I know it.

[Chris Swanson]

And he was there for. There you go, Pastor Paddock. And man, I was so proud of them. They were digging out the furniture. They were moving the stuff from the church into a school. They're moving people's home goods into the school. And that's one of my other connections with Kentucky and they were great people. My son had a fabulous time. August 2022.

[Andy Beshear]

Well, thank your son for me. That was the worst flooding we've ever had. Killed 45 Kentuckians, which you know, that doesn't happen in, in flooding. And we needed every bit of that help. So you're obviously a really good dad raising him right Now I'm told you also have a connection to Louisville, Kentucky.

[Chris Swanson]

I do. 2009, I spent about 18 hours between my bike and my run and my swim. Louisville, Kentucky did the Ironman. I did. I've done five Ironmans. I've completed my fifth Ironman in 2023. So Ironman number two was Louisville, Kentucky and I've always said that when I'm going to do Ironman I want a great finish in Louisville, Kentucky. Your finish with the lights and the amount of productivity was fabulous. Ironman number two, I owe it to Louisville, Kentucky. I love you.

[Andy Beshear]

Now I wonder if you'd be the first sitting governor to ever complete an Ironman in office. Would you try that?

[Chris Swanson]

Hey, I am, I have no off button governor. I want to do it to inspire other people and you know, that was a great community. So don't put anything past that. This election year is like my sixth Ironman. But when I become a governor, hey, I gotta, I got time to train with the whole state of Michigan.

[Andy Beshear]

I want to see the state troopers diving in the water after you trying to keep up if you need help.

[Jocelyn Benson]

That's right.

[Andy Beshear]

The head of my executive detail also does the Ironman so maybe, maybe he could tag along with you.

[Chris Swanson]

Yeah, well he's a good man for having that fortitude.

[Andy Beshear]

We like to ask all our guests two of the same questions. The first Is as Democrats, we talk a lot about our what, which is policy. But we like to get what drives people. We like to get to your why. What's the why that drove you into law enforcement, and what's the why that has you willing to leave a good job where you're making a difference to run for this governor's seat?

[Chris Swanson]

Well, to your first point, there's something inside of people that caused them to want to do for others. And that's always been my DNA. I have had the ability to just solve problems in people's lives even when I was a little kid. You know, I bring order out of chaos. I always say, prepare in peace to perform in chaos. And I've been in this world since I was 18 years old, seen a lot of death and violence. But I'm telling you, Governor, we've been able to put lives together. I teach at the University of Michigan for 28 years in public health. I love pouring into people. I just love leading. And that's the best place to be as an executive leader and certainly as a sheriff, which carries over as the governor. But to the second thing is, you know, when there's an opportunity to serve at a higher level and to influence people and to write history by seeing the things we can do, then I'm taking the opportunity. You know, there's others in my party that are running. They're great options, but this is what makes me a different Democrat. Common sense decisions, common sense and common ground results. Those things that people need. Just listen to the people. They'll tell you what they need.

[Andy Beshear]

So as governor, you've got a big cabinet. Certainly in Kentucky, we've got about 30,000 total employees, so a big organization. How would you go about putting together your leadership team?

[Chris Swanson]

Well, the governor has about 200 appointees in Michigan, and of course, the state government is quite big, but doing the same thing. We have cabinets, you know, the cabinet of Department of Public Safety, Department of Public Health, Department of Economics and Development. You put the right people, if they have the ability and not just. And you see it. That's why you're such a popular governor. I get a crossover vote in Genesee county of 30%. You get a crossover vote in Kentucky, just like that. You put the right people in the right spots to make a difference. That's a winning team. And that's what's going to make Democratic Party powerful again, is building a team of coalition that gets things done across the country so other Democrats can step into leadership. That's what I'm going to do. And that's what I've done my whole life.

[Andy Beshear]

Tell our listeners why they should get interested in a Michigan primary and why they should back Chris Swanson.

[Chris Swanson]

Because we have seen a moment with momentum that's create the movement. And when I saw you in Detroit, I told you, I just come off your Bill Maher interview and I saw what you said as the chair of the DGA saying we're looking for people that can inspire the Democratic Party, people that can breathe life into it. You know, no disrespect to anybody else, but I bring a level of energy that I have not seen, that I've been looking for. And so that's why people can get excited about Michigan, because if Kentucky wins, if Michigan wins, if other states win, we all win. And when that happens with the right reasons and the right hearts, the United States is in a better place.

[Andy Beshear]

We also ask all of our guests what their secret superpower is. What is something about you that you're good at that no one knows?

[Chris Swanson]

Energy. I have this inside.

[Andy Beshear]

I think everybody knows that.

[Chris Swanson]

Well, I, my mom, I tell her she's about 5 foot. She gets all my energy. But that is my superpowers. I can bring calmness into people's lives and I can bring energy to people that feel like they have nothing. That is a superpower I never take for granted. I love doing what I'm doing, but that's it. My superhero growing up was the Incredible Hulk.

[Andy Beshear]

Well, tell all of our listeners how they can follow you and your campaign.

[Chris Swanson]

Well, I do appreciate it, Governor. SwansonfromMichigan.com and you could certainly go on social media and we have owned it and we have put it out there to show people inside who I am. But that's the official Swansonfrom Michigan.com or Google Chris Swanson and you won't be disappointed.

[Andy Beshear]

As we close out, give us your elevator pitch, that 30 second pitch. If you just had a moment to tell people why they should vote for you.

[Chris Swanson]

I'm a governor who brings order out of chaos. One that you'll be inspired by, one that you'll feel energies by, but that can still get things done, no matter what the situation is.

[Andy Beshear]

Call Chris.

[Chris Swanson]

I'll protect you, I'll serve you, and I'll unify the state. And when you do that, others will see it and others will duplicate. I won't let you down.

[Andy Beshear]

Finally, because you mentioned your son, tell us a little bit about your family.

[Chris Swanson]

I love it. I met my wife in jail. It's a great story. Been married for 31 years. She was a social worker. I met her in 1993. We got met her in 94. And I got two boys. My oldest is in dental school down in Florida, married to a nurse. My youngest got married last year. He's married to a girl that just graduated from Michigan state. The Swanson 6 is complete. My boys are best friends. They. Mary's best friends. And they're just good people. They serve people.

[Andy Beshear]

Yeah. I think we are about nine months into this podcast and you just had the line of the entire Andy Beshear podcast history. I met my wife in jail.

[Chris Swanson]

There you go. I'll take it.

[Andy Beshear]

Chris, thanks for joining us. Best of luck in your race.

[Chris Swanson]

Thank you, Governor. And thank you for leading our party and the governors of the state of Michigan and beyond.

[Andy Beshear]

This week on the Andy Beshear Podcast, we have the return of a segment we call In My Kentucky Accent. It's where I talk about what's on my heart and my mind, what's given me hope or what's upsetting me this week. And sadly, this week it's the latter. As we're filming this, it's just been a couple of days since Donald Trump hit yet another level of depravity. He posted a video on social media from a conspiracy theorist suggesting that Governor Tim Walls had something to do with with the murder of the former speaker of the House in Minnesota and her husband. What I know is that former speaker of the House and Governor Walz were some of the closest friends that anybody has ever had. I remember when this happened, how much it tore at Tim, how much it hit him very personally, how emotional he was. And somebody from somebody like me who has lost a close friend to an act of violence, I could tell just how painful that moment was. This president apparently has no limits, doesn't care whatsoever, and is willing to incite political violence against his perceived enemies. This should have been totally out of bounds, not just for a president, but for any human being, especially one that calls himself a Christian. This isn't loving your neighbor as yourself. This is hating on your neighbor to the maximum of your ability. I'd say to the president, try to be presidential, but we know you're not going to do that. I try to say just be a decent human being, but it doesn't appear that you care about doing that. How about this? Just don't be a total jerk. That's my Kentucky accent. Hey, podcast family, it's Andy and the Johns. The Johns are sitting here in their brand new Andy Beshear Podcast Merch. What do you think of it fellas?

[Chris Swanson]

It's great.

[Andy Beshear]

I always love a good hat.

[Chris Swanson]

Listen, I love it and I hear there's a rumor that there's going to be some swag that says Andy Bashir Podcast and the Johns. Yes, finally, John. So respect.

[Andy Beshear]

I think finally we're going to get some merch to drop that's actually going to feature us. We'd love to see you in the Andy Beshear Podcast Merch. Make sure you take those photos, post it to social media and tag us at Andy Beshear Podcast. We will feature one great photo on our YouTube channel every week, so join us at the Andy Beshear Podcast. You can download us on all major platforms or catch us on Sirius XM progress at 11am on Saturday mornings. And that's a wrap on this episode of the Andy Beshear Podcast. We'll be back next week with another episode of prime for 2026, where you can learn about the most exciting primary candidates around the country. Stay safe this week, do good things and be kind to each other.

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