Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum announced her candidacy for Michigan Secretary of State on Wednesday, emphasizing her commitment to fair, secure, and accessible elections.
Byrum, who has served as Ingham County Clerk since 2012, has a history of public service including administering 40 elections and several recounts, such as the 2016 presidential recount.
“I’m running for Secretary of State because I believe elections should be fair, secure and accessible for voters today and in future generations,” Byrum said.
Byrum has been a vocal advocate for voters’ rights and has frequently spoken out against election misinformation. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring that elections are secure and that every qualified voter can easily exercise their right to vote.
Before her tenure as County Clerk, Byrum served six years in the Michigan House of Representatives, where she held various leadership roles and authored legislation to enhance consumer protections and provide benefits for surviving spouses of law enforcement officers.
In 2014, Byrum performed one of the first same-sex marriage ceremonies in Michigan during a brief period when same-sex marriage was legalized.
Byrum also has experience as a small business owner, having operated Byrum Ace Hardware for 18 years, which she believes underscores the importance of providing excellent customer service at the Secretary of State’s Office.
Genesee County Clerk-Register Domonique Clemons praised Byrum as a leader among clerks and an expert in election processes, noting her steadfast advocacy for voter rights and election integrity.
Byrum’s campaign for Secretary of State will culminate in the Democratic nomination at the Michigan Democratic Party’s State Convention in spring 2026, ahead of the November 3, 2026, General Election.
