Why Garlin Gilchrist wants to be secretary of state

The Metro

Why Garlin Gilchrist wants to be secretary of state

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Published on Oct 14, 2026, 1:20:32 PM
Total time: 00:32:26

Episode Description

Michigan's secretary of state runs the offices that renew licenses and register cars. The same office runs elections in the state. Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist is one of two people running for the position. 

Gilchrist was a software engineer who lost a bid for Detroit city clerk in 2017. Since 2018, he’s been lieutenant governor for the state. Now, he’s running for secretary of state after leaving the governor’s race. Why? And, how did his role of lieutenant governor prepare him to be secretary of state?

Gilchrist spoke with The Metro's Robyn Vincent about this and more.

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