MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. (WZMQ) – Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson used her appearance at the Mackinac Policy Conference Thursday to unveil a sweeping education platform while outlining broader plans aimed at lowering costs for Michigan families.
Benson, a Democratic candidate for governor, framed her proposal as part of a larger affordability agenda focused on housing, healthcare, childcare and energy costs.
“Families are struggling,” Benson said. “Struggling to put food on the table, to pay their medical bills, to fill the tank, to pay their rent, and even keep their lights and heat on.”
Benson has rolled out a policy plan focused on education reform, which she described as essential to Michigan’s long-term economic growth.
“We cannot grow our economy without a public education system that is preparing our young people for the jobs of the future,” Benson said. “Michigan’s next governor has a moral responsibility to ensure public education excellence throughout our state.”
Her plan includes five major pillars, beginning with what she called a Michigan Education Guarantee, designed to ensure every student graduates college or career-ready.
The proposal would create a unified statewide graduation standard, expand hands-on learning opportunities, and increase support services for students with special needs.
Benson also proposed a guaranteed $60,000 starting salary for teachers as part of an effort to recruit and retain educators statewide.
“We need to pay our teachers more, and that’s what this plan reflects,” Benson said. “That would be a moral commitment I have as governor.”
During a question-and-answer session following the speech, Benson said the proposal would require reshaping Michigan’s education funding model.
“The school aid fund needs to not be raided for other things, but go directly to funding public education in the state,” Benson said. “If we do that one thing alone, we can meet that goal.”
The plan would also expand access to early childhood education and childcare programs while extending the state’s RX Kids program statewide.
Benson additionally called for changes to Michigan’s school funding system, arguing the current “one-size-fits-all” model does not adequately meet the needs of individual districts.
Her proposal includes creating a statewide strategic plan for public education that would involve agencies, including the Department of Education, MiLEAP, and DHHS.
“This is how we build a Michigan where anyone can afford to build a life here,” Benson said, “by transforming broken systems and making Michigan a state where every student and every educator has what they need to succeed.”
Beyond education, Benson discussed proposals aimed at lowering healthcare and housing costs, streamlining permitting requirements for new home construction and reforming utility regulations.
She criticized what she described as “profit-driven rate hikes” from utility companies and called for additional oversight of utilities and regulators.
“I have not taken any money from DTE or Consumers,” Benson said. “I recognize the importance of drawing that line.”
Benson said her energy plan would not only focus on lowering costs, but also modernizing infrastructure and reducing outages.
“I live through the power outages that’s affecting so many Michiganders,” Benson said. “I see my electricity bill going up, and I know this moment requires bold leaders in Lansing.”
Her energy platform includes proposals to modernize Michigan’s electric grid, weatherize homes, expand renewable energy and restrict utilities from using campaign contributions to influence regulators.
Benson also faced questions about coalition-building following Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan’s independent campaign for governor. She said her campaign is focused on attracting support from Democrats, independents and Republicans alike.
“Every time I’ve been on the ballot, I’ve been able to grow a bipartisan coalition of support,” Benson said. “We welcome everyone who’s committed like we are to transformational change that will make Michigan the best place to call home.
