Jocelyn Benson is Michigan’s Secretary of State. She will run for governor in 2026 as a Democrat. In her memoir, The Purposeful Warrior, she opens up about her miscarriage. This experience changed her views on access to reproductive health care.
Benson stands out as the only woman in a crowded Democratic race. She had her miscarriage about eight years ago. It happened soon after her son turned one and before her 2017 campaign for Secretary of State. In a chapter titled “Grit and Grace,” she reflects on the emotional impact of her loss.
“It showed me how vital it is to protect reproductive freedom and rights,” Benson said to the Associated Press. 
She talks about her options after the diagnosis: surgery, medication, or waiting. She also shares the painful feelings that came afterward. By sharing her story, she hopes to reduce the stigma that many women face. “I want to tell my story to say it’s okay to tell yours as well,” she said.
Benson is one of many women telling their stories of miscarriage or abortion since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. In Michigan, voters backed abortion rights in a 2022 ballot. Benson still believes that we need more action.
If she becomes governor, her plan is to bring in more reproductive health doctors. She also wants to expand access in rural areas using mobile clinics. She pointed out the recent closure of three Planned Parenthood sites. This includes the only one in the Upper Peninsula. This shows an urgent need for services.
Benson competes against Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II and Sheriff Chris Swanson in the Democratic primary.
The Republican candidates are:
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U.S. Rep. John James
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State Senate Minority Leader Aaric Nesbitt
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Former Attorney General Mike Cox
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is running as an independent.
In her memoir, Benson criticizes Duggan. She says he discouraged women in the 2018 gubernatorial primary. She says he didn’t support Gov. Gretchen Whitmer at first. Instead, he backed male candidates.
Benson’s personal and political stories shape her campaign message. It focuses on equity, access, and representation for Michigan’s future.
