Detroit — Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield endorsed Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson on Monday to be the state’s next governor, saying she’ll fight and advocate for the same values Sheffield has been fighting for.
Surrounded by chants of “Benson!” at a press conference at a senior apartment complex in Detroit, Sheffield said she’s known Benson during the mayor’s entire time as an elected official. She said Benson, who lives in Detroit and is raising her 10-year-old son in the city, has shown her commitment to the city.
“We need a governor who is going to be a true partner,” said Sheffield. “…I know as governor she’ll stand up for us again and again.”
Benson is vying to succeed Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who is wrapping up her second term in office. She faces one opponent in the Aug. 4 Democratic primary, Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson of Fenton.
Sheffield said she and Benson have already talked about key issues, including neighborhood development and possibly expanding Rx Kids, the unique cash aid assistance now available in dozens of communities. She said Benson has discussed expanding the program across the state.
Benson said Detroit is where she’s chosen “to build my life, my career, raise my son.” She said as Detroit’s growth over the last decade is recognized, the next 10 years “will determine our future even more than the last.” She said she wants Michigan — and Detroit — to be where people build their futures.
“Ensuring that future is personal to me, not just as a resident but as a mom…” she said. “I’m fiercely committed to make suring that our loved ones continually choose Detroit, and Michigan, to call home.”
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield makes endorsement in governor’s race
Reporting by The Detroit News / The Detroit News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By The Detroit News | USA TODAY Network
