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.

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Garlin Gilchrist II, a Democrat from Detroit who is Michigan's first Black lieutenant governor, announced he's jumping into the crowded 2026 race for governor on Tuesday.

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.