---
title: "Benson Names 15-Member Leadership Council for Transition"
url: https://www.herelansing.com/2026/11/05/benson-names-transition-leadership-council/
date: 2026-11-05T08:16:31-05:00
modified: 2026-11-05T08:16:31-05:00
author: "HERE City State Desk"
categories: ["Politics"]
site: "HERE Lansing"
attribution: "HERE Lansing"
---

# Benson Names 15-Member Leadership Council for Transition

> DETROIT, Mich. — Governor-elect Jocelyn Benson tapped a 15-person leadership council to steer her transition, with Mayor Mary Sheffield of Detroit and Prosecutor Kym Worthy of Wayne County among the members, as she prepares for a Jan. 1, 2027, swearing-in. Benson and Lt. Gov.-elect Winnie Brinks appeared Wednesday after Bensons win over Republican John James,

*Source: [HERE Lansing](https://www.herelansing.com/2026/11/05/benson-names-transition-leadership-council/) — November 5, 2026 by HERE City State Desk*

*From the HERE City State Desk*

DETROIT, Mich. — Governor-elect Jocelyn Benson tapped a 15-person leadership council to steer her transition, with Mayor Mary Sheffield of Detroit and Prosecutor Kym Worthy of Wayne County among the members, as she prepares for a Jan. 1, 2027, swearing-in.

Benson and Lt. Gov.-elect Winnie Brinks appeared Wednesday after Bensons win over Republican John James, who finished at 54.5% in unofficial returns. Benson said bringing down household costs is the first order of business and that the transition will look for inflation relief while Democrats hold large majorities in both legislative chambers.

Brinks said progress on cheaper health coverage and lower everyday bills will need help from both parties. Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel said unified control gives the party room to confront child-care and housing costs that squeeze families.

Benson said she already met Whitmer and expects a clean handoff. She plans to roll out more first-100-days details in the weeks ahead and said her administration will leave space for Michiganders no matter how they voted.