How to Run for Governor in Michigan
Since 1966, governors in Michigan have served four-year terms. In 1992, Michigan amended its constitution to impose a two-term limit on individuals holding the office of governor. That law did not apply to John Engler, however, because his first term as governor began in 1991, before the amendment passed, and Engler was able to serve three terms. Rick Snyder, a Republican, is the current governor. He defeated Virg Bernero, the Democratic mayor of Lansing, in 2010. Because Snyder is likely to seek a second term, his primary opponents will be Democrats or independent candidates.
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Instructions
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Make sure you meet the age requirement. The Michigan constitution states that "a person must have attained the age of 30 years" to assume the office of either governor or lieutenant governor.
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Determine how long you have been registered to vote in the state. The Constitution stipulates that an individual seeking the office of governor must "have been a registered elector in this state for four years next preceding his election."
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Decide whether you would like to seek the nomination of a political party or run as an independent candidate. To seek a party's nomination, you must follow through with the procedures associated with that party. This usually involves gathering enough ballot signatures to be placed on the ballot during the primary election, winning that primary, and formally assuming the role of the party's nominee during its convention. See Resources for information concerning the Michigan Republican and Democratic parties.
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Determine your political positions on issues relevant to Michigan. If you are running for a party's nomination, your positions should be in line with the platform of the party whose nomination you are seeking.
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Assemble a team and begin canvassing. Until you earn the support of a major party, you will be largely responsible for staffing your own campaign.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember that even though you are running for office in Michigan, you must abide by all current federal campaign finance laws. See Resources for more information.
References
Resources
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