WHAT THEY’RE SAYING: Benson-Brinks Ticket Celebrated as the Best Choice for Michigan

“Jocelyn and Winnie know Michigan, they know how to govern, and they know who they’re working for – the people.” - Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield

Today, Secretary of State and Democratic nominee for Governor Jocelyn Benson announced that Michigan Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks will join her on the ticket as her running mate and the Democratic nominee for Lieutenant Governor of Michigan. 

Following the announcement, elected officials and community leaders across Michigan have applauded Jocelyn’s choice of running mate, recognizing Brinks as one of the most effective legislators in the state senate and a champion of Michiganders’ rights. 

Here’s what people are saying…

“Jocelyn’s selection of Majority Leader Winnie Brinks as her running mate is a great choice for Michigan,” said Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist. “After eight years serving as a lieutenant governor, I know this job is about more than showing up for the big moments. It’s about knowing how to work with people, solve problems, and deliver for families in every corner of Michigan. Winnie knows how to do that. We’ve seen in the Senate, where her leadership helped make some of our administration’s biggest accomplishments possible, from guaranteeing free breakfast and lunch in public schools to repealing right-to-work. I’m proud to pass the baton to Winnie, and welcome her West Michigan values to this team. I know she and Jocelyn will bring the experience and focus Michigan needs to keep moving forward.”

“I'm thrilled that Michigan will soon be led by two exceptionally capable women who have consistently delivered results for communities across Michigan,” said Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield. “Winnie shows up, listens, and understands that the decisions being made in Lansing have real consequences for people back home. She’s been a tireless champion for Michigan's cities—from Grand Rapids to Detroit and everywhere in between. Jocelyn and Winnie know Michigan, they know how to govern, and they know who they’re working for – the people.”

“Congratulations to Winnie Brinks on her selection as Michigan’s next Lieutenant Governor. Winnie has spent years standing up for working people and proving that government can make a real difference in people’s lives,” said President of the Michigan AFL-CIO Ron Bieber. “Thanks to her leadership in the trifecta, we restored workers’ rights and put more money back in the pockets of working families. While Jocelyn and Winnie are focused on delivering good-paying jobs and economic freedom to Michigan, John James and Jay DeBoer are running to be Donald Trump’s allies in Lansing. Michigan needs leaders who are ready to get to work on day one, and working people know Winnie will have their back.”

"The people of Grand Rapids know Winnie Brinks as a strong, determined leader who never stops fighting for working families," said State Representative Kristian Grant. "She's always been a champion for our city, and we're excited to see her bring that same leadership to the Lieutenant Governor's office. From leading the legislature through a period of bold change to providing steady leadership during a time of chaos and uncertainty in Washington, Winnie has repeatedly shown what effective leadership looks like. I'm excited to continue working with Winnie and Jocelyn as they build a Michigan where everyone can live, work, and succeed."

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