Garlin Gilchrist II entering the 2026 gubernatorial race. Before his career in public service, Gilchrist worked as a software engineer and it's the pitch he said he plans to make to voters during his campaign.

Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II is running for governor, he announced Tuesday, setting up a Democratic primary clash that includes two prominent statewide officeholders in one of the most tightly divided states.

Gilchrist is now one of six running for Michigan’s top office. State House minority leader Eric Nesbit and Genesis County Republican Anthony Hudson of Grand Blanc are running on the Republican side. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is running as an independent.

We’ve made a lot of progress the past six years. But there’s so much more to do.” said Lt. Gov. Gilchrist, announcing his candidacy for Governor of Michigan.

LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II launched his campaign for governor of Michigan on Tuesday. On a post on X, formerly Twitter, Gilchrist posted a video discussing his accomplishments as Lieutenant Governor, his goals for Michigan, and his aim to "stand tall for Michigan and deliver for our families."

Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, a software engineer from Detroit, entered a growing Democratic primary field for governor in a period of uncertainty for his party.

Michigan Lieutenant Gov. Garlin Gilchrist (D) announced Tuesday that he is running for governor in the perennial battleground. Why it matters: The crowded race for the governor's mansion will be among the most closely watched and expensive contests over the next two years.