Michigan's Democratic Secretary of State, Jocelyn Benson, has found herself in the crosshairs of controversy for a potential breach of campaign law.
The issue arose when she discussed her 2026 gubernatorial candidacy with journalists within a state-funded building. Benson, who is aiming to succeed the term-limited Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer, defended her actions by attributing them to the cold weather.
According to the Daily Caller, Benson's decision to use a public facility for campaign-related activities could be a violation of Michigan statute MCL 169.267. This law explicitly prohibits the use of public resources for campaign activities, which could potentially put Benson in a precarious legal situation even before her gubernatorial campaign fully takes off.
In her defense, Benson stated, Its cold today. Its cold, so we didnt want yall to stand outside in the cold. Thats why were here again, this was an effort to make sure that no ones getting frostbite. She also indicated her lack of awareness about the rules that forbid candidates from fielding campaign-related press inquiries within the building that houses Michigans Department of State.
Its certainly never come to my attention, she claimed, adding that other candidates were welcome to use the buildings lobby for their campaign activities.
However, a Michigan political attorney who wished to remain anonymous expressed skepticism about Benson's defense. I dont know of a cold weather exception to the law prohibiting the use of public resources for campaign activity, the attorney told the Daily Caller News Foundation. But if you look at the back and forth there, she doesnt say, Well, its legal. She says shes doing it inside because its cold.
The attorney further questioned Benson's claims of ignorance, considering her position and experience. She holds herself out as the most knowledgeable secretary of state in the country, been in office for six years, and is pursuing at least investigating possible violations of the same statute, and yet shes saying shes surprised by this. I dont know about that, the attorney added.
The attorney's skepticism is not unfounded, given that Benson previously investigated the Livingston County Sheriffs Office for violating the same law after it hosted a campaign event for President Donald Trump in August 2024.
Benson's campaign has also faced other hurdles, including a premature announcement of her candidacy. In a now-deleted post, she expressed being overwhelmed by support, stating, Michigan, Im so overwhelmed by your support today thank you! Michiganders are ready to fight for a transparent, affordable, and safer future for all of Michigan. And were just getting warmed up.
The potential legal implications of violating MCL 169.267 are severe, including up to a year of imprisonment and/or a $1,000 fine for individuals. For non-individual offenders, the law stipulates a fine of up to $20,000 or a fine equivalent to the amount of the improper contribution or expenditure, whichever is greater. It remains unclear whether Republicans will pursue charges against Benson individually or against her campaign.
As the race for the governor's office heats up, other contenders include Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, running as an independent, and Aric Nesbitt, Michigans Republican Senate minority leader. As of now, Benson is the only prominent Democrat in the race. Governor Whitmers term will conclude in January 2027.
Despite the controversy and potential legal implications, Benson's campaign has yet to respond to the Daily Caller News Foundation's request for comment.
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