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

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson is making a bid for the Michigan governor’s office. The high-profile sheriff, a Democrat, was first elected in 2020. He gained national attention that year for marching with protesters.

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.

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson is expected to formally announce his candidacy for governor Thursday at around 5:30 p.m., which you can watch live on this page. A potential bid for governor has been in Swanson’s orbit for at least four years.

Genesee County Sheriff Christopher Swanson is the latest person to throw a hat in the ring in the race for Michigan governor.

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.

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.