Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson Announces Candidacy for Michigan Governor

Grand Rapids, Mich. — Chris Swanson, the current sheriff of Genesee County, officially announced his candidacy for Michigan governor on Thursday, signaling his intent to run in the 2026 election. The announcement comes as current Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who has served two terms, is term-limited and ineligible to seek re-election.

Swanson, who has been with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department since 2011, brings nearly three decades of law enforcement experience to the race. He was first appointed sheriff in 2019 before securing the position through election in 2020. The Genesee County Sheriff’s Department is the fifth largest in Michigan, and Swanson’s career spans a variety of law enforcement roles, including corrections, criminal investigations, human trafficking, and narcotics.

Swanson’s platform highlights a deep commitment to criminal justice reform and community-focused policing. He is perhaps best known for his work in creating the Genesee Human Oppression Strike Team (G.H.O.S.T.) in 2018, a specialized unit aimed at combatting human trafficking and criminal sexual conduct. His emphasis on rehabilitation is also evident through his establishment of the Inmate Growth Naturally and Intentionally through Education (I.G.N.I.T.E.) program, which provides incarcerated individuals with educational opportunities to help them reintegrate into society upon release.

Swanson’s candidacy enters a growing field of contenders vying for the governor’s seat. Last week, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced her own bid for governor, while Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan revealed he would run as an independent. On the Republican side, Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt and former Attorney General Mike Cox are also expected to join the race, with Cox having already filed paperwork.

While Swanson’s experience in law enforcement sets him apart from many of the other candidates, his rise to national attention during the 2020 protests following the killing of George Floyd has garnered him a reputation as a leader willing to engage with communities during times of unrest. In a highly publicized move, Swanson famously took off his helmet and joined Black Lives Matter protesters in a march through Flint, which further highlighted his approachability and willingness to listen to the concerns of citizens.

As the race heats up, Swanson’s unique blend of law enforcement experience, community engagement, and reform-oriented policies will likely make him a formidable contender. His entrance into the governor’s race adds another dynamic to what is shaping up to be a highly competitive election cycle.

With the field of candidates continuing to grow, Michigan voters can expect a spirited debate over the future direction of the state in the years ahead.