What does Michigan need in its next governor? Sheriff Chris Swanson believes it's someone who can protect, serve, and unify.
The Genesee County Sheriff joins The Common Bridge to outline his vision as a Democratic candidate for Michigan's 2026 gubernatorial race. Drawing from his 33 years in law enforcement and extensive background in education and emergency medicine, Swanson offers a refreshingly practical approach to the state's most pressing challenges.
Michigan stands at a crossroads. With declining population, housing shortages, and an education system ranked 39th nationally, the state needs leadership that transcends partisan divides. Swanson's candidacy emerges from this landscape with a focus on unity without demanding uniformity – recognizing that diverse perspectives strengthen rather than weaken our communities.
His innovative approaches to persistent problems showcase his leadership style. The "Ignite" program, which has transformed education in jails across 23% of states, demonstrates how innovative thinking can break cycles of incarceration. His proposal to expand career training to middle school addresses the skills gap plaguing Michigan's workforce. His commitment to building 140,000 new homes acknowledges the housing crisis facing families throughout the state.
Perhaps most compelling is Swanson's response to the 2020 protests, when he chose to walk with demonstrators rather than confront them. This moment exemplifies his leadership philosophy: listen first, find common ground, and work toward solutions that benefit everyone. "Nobody can convince me that unity can't be done," he asserts. "It just needs strong leadership."
As Michigan prepares for the post-Whitmer era, Swanson offers voters a candidate focused on practical solutions rather than partisan talking points. His message resonates beyond party lines: protect what matters most, serve as a servant leader, and build bridges across divides.
Want to see Michigan thrive again? Join the conversation about what leadership should look like in 2026. Subscribe to The Common Bridge for more nonpartisan discussions that challenge conventional political wisdom.
Engage the conversation on Substack at The Common Bridge!
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.