Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson joins Michigan governor's race

• State Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, a Republican from the southwest part of the state, also entered the race this month.

Catch up quick: As secretary of state, Benson has administered the state's last two presidential elections.

• She gained national attention for defending the 2020 election results when Joe Biden carried Michigan.
• Gov. Gretchen Whitmer can't run for reelection due to term limits.

What they're saying: Benson told the Detroit News she wants to be "the governor who puts transparency and efficiency at the forefront."

What's next: Expect more candidates to declare over the next few months, setting up a competitive and crowded race.