Garlin Gilchrist Announces Bid for Michigan’s First Black Governor

Garlin Gilchrist II, Michigan’s first Black lieutenant governor, officially declared his candidacy for the 2026 gubernatorial race on Tuesday. A Democrat from Detroit and a former software engineer, Gilchrist gained political prominence in 2018 when he was elected alongside Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Over the last six years, his reputation has grown through his close association with Whitmer, a leading figure in national politics.

Gilchrist, who has established relationships across all 83 Michigan counties, emphasized his engineering background as a key strength for solving the state’s problems. He outlined his priorities as governor, focusing on expanding affordable housing and improving healthcare access, particularly mental health services.

He acknowledged the frustration that led to President Donald Trump’s 2020 victory in Michigan and vowed to tackle the “status quo” that has failed to serve voters.

Despite his role in the state’s Democratic leadership, Gilchrist expressed a desire for change, promising to empower residents to build their futures in Michigan. However, his candidacy must contend with his association with the Democratic Party, which controlled state government from 2022 to 2024.

He described Governor Whitmer as an ally, highlighting their collaborative efforts in shaping Michigan’s future.

Gilchrist, hailing from Detroit – a city with a large Black population – gains significant support from his hometown. If elected, he would make history as Michigan’s first Black governor.

Despite his rise in politics, Gilchrist’s previous political attempts, such as his narrow loss in the 2017 Detroit City Clerk race, are a reminder of the challenges ahead.

His path to the governorship is not without obstacles. He faces competition in the Democratic primary from figures like Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson.

The winner of this primary may also have to contend with Republican Senate Leader Aric Nesbitt in the general election, along with Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, a former Democrat running as an independent.