Context:

Jocelyn Benson, Michigan's Secretary of State, is running for governor in 2026 and has shared her experience with miscarriage in her memoir 'The Purposeful Warrior,' which has deeply influenced her commitment to improving reproductive health access in Michigan. Benson aims to enhance reproductive healthcare by advocating for more physicians and mobile clinics, especially in rural areas, following recent Planned Parenthood closures in the state. Her personal story and political platform come in the context of the post-Roe v. Wade era, where reproductive rights are a significant issue for many voters. She will face competition from several candidates in the Democratic primary, while the Republican side also has strong contenders, including figures aligned with Donald Trump. Benson's memoir also critiques Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan's past political maneuvers, reflecting broader gender dynamics in Michigan's political landscape.

Dive Deeper:

• Jocelyn Benson's memoir, 'The Purposeful Warrior,' reveals her miscarriage experience, which has become a pivotal reason for her focus on expanding reproductive health services in her gubernatorial campaign. She emphasizes the emotional impact of miscarriage and the importance of making reproductive rights tangible and accessible.

• Benson's policy goals include attracting skilled healthcare providers to Michigan and enhancing reproductive services in underserved rural areas, partly by implementing mobile health clinics. This initiative responds to recent closures of Planned Parenthood locations in Michigan due to financial constraints, affecting access to reproductive healthcare.

• The political landscape in Michigan sees Benson facing competition from Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson in the Democratic primary. On the Republican side, U.S. Rep. John James and others are vying for their party’s nomination, with potential support from Donald Trump.

• Benson's memoir discusses her tenure as Michigan's election official during the 2020 election and critiques Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan for his lack of early support for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2018, highlighting gender issues in political candidacies.

• The backdrop to Benson's campaign includes a shifting political climate, with Michigan swinging back to Republican control in recent elections, which adds complexity to her campaign strategy focusing on reproductive rights.

• Michigan voters had previously supported a ballot measure to protect abortion access, reflecting the significance of reproductive issues in the state, yet Benson believes further action is necessary to ensure comprehensive healthcare access.

• The political dynamics in Michigan are further complicated by Mayor Mike Duggan running as an independent, which presents additional challenges for Democratic candidates like Benson, who are navigating a divided electorate.