(LANSING) - Early fundraising numbers are beginning to separate the field in Michigan's race for governor, with clear leaders on both sides of the aisle, according to data reported by Bridge Michigan.
Democrat Jocelyn Benson raised nearly $1 million during the final reporting period of 2025, bringing her total fundraising to about $4.5 million when combined with transfers from her secretary of state campaign.
Republican John James reported roughly $839,000 in the same period, putting him close to Benson overall.
Independent candidate Mike Duggan raised $644,000, pushing his total fundraising to nearly $5 million since launching his campaign in late 2024. Duggan's campaign reported fewer donors but significantly larger average contributions.
James drew support from nearly twice as many donors as Benson, including prominent Michigan Republican families, while Benson's donor list included members of the Ford family and technology executives.
Other candidates trailed well behind.
Republican Mike Cox relied heavily on self-funding, while Perry Johnson announced plans to invest millions of his own money. Several other GOP hopefuls raised comparatively modest amounts.
On the Democratic side, Chris Swanson struggled to keep pace, and Garlin Gilchrist has since shifted his focus to a secretary of state bid.
Campaign finance experts say early fundraising does not guarantee victory, but it is critical for building name recognition and voter outreach ahead of Michigan's Aug. 4 primary.