Jocelyn Benson, Garlin Gilchrist II, Chris Swanson

An internal poll conducted for Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson’s gubernatorial campaign shows her with a commanding lead among Democrats in the 2026 race.

The poll, conducted by Impact Research , shows Benson with 56 percent support, followed by Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist at 17 percent and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson at 5 percent. Another 23 percent are undecided.

The poll, which involved 453 interviews of likely Democratic primary voters, has a margin of error of plus or minus 4.6 percentage points. It was conducted between Sept. 30 and Oct. 6.

Benson also dominates the other two candidates in key demographics, including age, gender, and race, according to the internal poll.

Among females, the research shows Benson leadin

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