Michigan’s current lieutenant governor, Garlin Gilchrist II, stopped in Negaunee on Sunday to hear from constituents and kick off his gubernatorial campaign. (Photo courtesy of the State of Michigan Office of the Governor)

NEGAUNEE — Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II (D) kicked off his campaign for governor at Strega Nonna in Negaunee on Saturday.

After serving under Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D) since 2019, Gilchrist announced his candidacy for governor in the 2026 election, running alongside candidates such as current Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson (D), Michigan State Senate District 20 Representative Aric Nesbitt (R) and former mayor of Detroit Mike Duggan (Independent).

Gov. Whitmer’s term limit will be reached in 2026, meaning she can no longer run for the position of governor after serving two consecutive terms.

Gilchrist’s campaign includes goals such as creating and sustaining affordable housing, improving and establishing education initiatives, and focusing on outdoor tourism. A software engineer by trade before taking on his position as the lieutenant governor, Gilchrist used the time at Strega Nonna to hear from those who live in the Upper Peninsula to hear their questions and concerns. This visit marked his sixth visit to the Upper Peninsula on official business, as he also visited in 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.

“Michigan’s future is being built by communities like Negaunee. I’m proud of the time I’ve spent all across Michigan as lieutenant governor. And there’s still so much more listening and learning we need to do to effectively invest in housing, education, and local opportunity that lifts up our entire state,” said Gilchrist in an email to the Mining Journal. “I’m running for governor because I want everyone to be able to find and follow their dreams. It’s by showing up, standing tall, and delivering for every part of Michigan that we can be a state where everyone can find health, wealth and opportunity here at home.”

Abby LaForest can be reached at 906-227-2500, ext. 548. Her email address is alaforest@miningjournal.net.