Photo: Nic Antaya ~ AP
PODCAST
October 9, 2026 ~ Republican Secretary of State candidate Anthony Forlini discusses his debate with Garlin Gilchrist, key election issues, and the message he hopes voters took away from the stage.
ANN ARBOR, Mich. ~ Michigan voters got a closer look at the candidates seeking to become the state’s next secretary of state as Democrat Garlin Gilchrist II and Republican Anthony Forlini met Thursday night for a debate in Ann Arbor. The candidates discussed election integrity, public trust and the future of election and licensing services while outlining their visions for the role.
Beyond policy differences, the debate gave voters an opportunity to hear directly from two candidates with different backgrounds in public service. Both Gilchrist and Forlini emphasized the importance of serving Michigan residents and maintaining confidence in the state’s election system ahead of the November election.
