Michigan Secretary of State Prioritizes Black Maternal Health in Gubernatorial Campaign
Black maternal health is a focal point in Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson’s gubernatorial campaign. She emphasized this issue during a recent announcement, highlighting a significant disparity affecting Black women in Michigan.
“Black women in our state are nearly three times as likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women,” Benson stated at a Flint press conference, underscoring the urgency of addressing this crisis. Her remarks were supported by advocates who have long been vocal about maternal health challenges.
Danielle Atkinson, a maternal health advocate, shared her experiences, saying, “I hear the heartbreaking stories from women around the country and in our own state, and it doesn’t have to be this way.”
Benson outlined her commitment to restructuring the health department based on her experience as Secretary of State. “I’ll do the same as governor to make sure every agency is as efficient and customer service oriented as our office is,” she assured attendees in Flint.
Although she did not specify the budget for expanding pre- and post-natal care and access to doula and midwifery services, Benson’s plan is clear in its objectives.
The race to succeed Governor Gretchen Whitmer is heating up. Benson is among the Democratic candidates vying for the 2026 gubernatorial nomination, alongside Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson and former Cape Coral, Florida Mayor Marni Sawicki. Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist has stepped out of the race.
In contrast, the Republican nomination sees a competitive lineup, including former Attorney General Mike Cox, former state House Speaker Tom Leonard, current state Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, and Congressman John James.
Adding to the diversity of the race, former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is campaigning as an independent candidate.
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