Jocelyn Benson Selects Winnie Brinks as Lieutenant Governor Running Mate

Democratic gubernatorial nominee and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson selected Michigan Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks as her running mate for lieutenant governor on Wednesday. The announcement took place at a brewpub in Grand Rapids, the hometown of Brinks. If elected, Benson and Brinks would become the first all-female governor and lieutenant governor pair in Michigan history.

Benson highlighted Brinks' legislative record, specifically her work on tax cuts for working families, reproductive rights, and the delivery of free school meals. Brinks, the first woman to serve as Senate Majority Leader in Michigan, stated her intention to focus on expanding healthcare access, affordable housing, and lowering household costs if elected.

The Democratic ticket will face Republican nominee U.S. Representative John James and his running mate, State Representative Jay DeBoyer. Brinks criticized James, claiming he is fighting for Donald Trump rather than the people of Michigan. In response, the James campaign and Republican officials characterized the Democratic ticket as too extreme, with press secretary Alyvia Bailey accusing Brinks of supporting driver's licenses for illegal immigrants and opposing protections for women's sports.

The nominations will be finalized at upcoming party conventions before the general election on November 3.