PODCAST:
Sept. 2, 2026 ~ Podcast host James David Dickson examines new polling from Michigan State University’s Institute for Public Policy and Social Research showing Democrats holding leads in both Michigan’s Senate and gubernatorial contests.
MICHIGAN ~ A new State of the State Survey shows that Democrats currently have the edge in Michigan’s top races for this year’s highly-watched midterm elections.
The poll by Michigan State University’s Institute for Public Policy and Social Research found that Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson leads Republican U.S. Rep. John James in the governor’s race 49% to 39% among registered voters while also ahead 52% to 43% among likely voters.
In regard to the U.S. Senate seat, Democrat Abdul El-Sayed is favored over Republican Mike Rogers 48% to 44% among registered voters and 50% to 45% among likely voters.
In addition, 55% of Michigan voters said U.S. President Donald Trump’s endorsement has made them less likely to support a candidate, compared to 27% saying it made them more likely to support a candidate.
The survey was conducted from Aug. 10-20.
