Michigan Executive Branch
Understanding the Statewide Executive Offices that Shape Michigan’s Elections, Laws, and Leadership
Nonpartisan, fact-based explanations to help you understand Michigan government.
Key Dates
Primary: Tuesday, August 4, 2026
General: Tuesday, November 3, 2026
Office Term Limits
4 Years | 2 Terms
Current Term: 2022-2026
About Michigan
Population: ~ 10.2M
Rank: 10th most populous state
Gretchin Whitmer
Democrat
2018-2026
What the Governor Does
Leads Michigan's state government as the chief executive.
Key Responsibilities
- Signing or vetoing laws passed by the legislature
- Proposing the state budget
- Overseeing state departments and agencies
- Responding to emergencies and issuing executive orders
Why This Role Matters
The Governor helps shape how laws are carried out and how state resources are used. Decisions made in this role can affect education, public safety, infrastructure, and other statewide priorities.
Governor's Official Resources
This office will appear on the statewide ballot in 2026.
Joceyln Benson
Democrat
2018-2026
What the Secretary of State Does
Oversees Michigan's elections and maintains key state records.
Key Responsibilities
- Administering elections and ensuring voting processes run smoothly
- Maintaining voter registration records
- Issuing driver’s licenses and state IDs
- Registering vehicles and maintaining driving records
Why This Role Matters
This office plays a central role in how Michigan residents interact with state government—from voting to everyday services like driver’s licenses and vehicle registration.
Secretary of State's Official Resources
This office will appear on the statewide ballot in 2026.
Dana Nessel
Democrat
2018-2026
What the Attorney General Does
Serves as Michigan's chief legal officer and represents the state in legal matters.
Key Responsibilities
- Enforcing state laws
- Representing Michigan in court cases
- Providing legal advice to state agencies
- Investigating consumer protection and public interest issues
Why This Role Matters
The Attorney General helps ensure laws are applied fairly and that state government actions follow the law. This office also works to protect residents from fraud, abuse, and illegal practices.
Attorney General's Official Resources
This office will appear on the statewide ballot in 2026.