Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson kicked off his campaign for governor with fanfare at an event in Flint with his supporters.

FLINT, MI – Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson has entered the Michigan governor race. The popular law enforcement official announced his plans to run during a Thursday, Feb. 6, news conference at Mott Community College in Flint.

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson announced Thursday that he is running for governor, seeking the Democratic nomination in a field that already includes Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson.

Chris Swanson, the high-profile sheriff of Michigan's Genesee County, is launching a Democratic bid to become the battleground state's next governor.

The Trump administration evicted former Coast Guard Commandant Linda Fagan from her home with three hours of notice on Tuesday. California Attorney General Rob Bonta says he will support former Vice President Kamala Harris if she decides to run for Golden State governor in 2026.

Swanson announced on Feb. 6, 2025, he will be running for the state’s governor seat in the 2026 race. He is the second candidate to be running for the Democratic Party. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson joined the race earlier in January.

Michigan is a battleground state and the sheriff faces stiff competition in what is likely to be one of the most competitive gubernatorial races in 2026.

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson is making a bid for the Michigan governor's office. (Feb. 7, 2025) The Trump administration evicted former Coast Guard Commandant Linda Fagan from her home with three hours of notice on Tuesday.

The room was packed full with hundreds of supporters surrounding a stage at the center of the room. The energy was like that found at a rock concert, but the headliner was Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson as he announced his campaign to become Michigan’s next governor.

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson discussed his gubernatorial announcement this week with 7 News Detroit Anchor Alicia Smith.