by
Mike Duggan and Jocelyn Benson
A just-released poll of Detroit voters shows Mayor Duggan, an Independent, and Secretary of State Benson splitting the city's vote, which could cost both the governor's race in a tight three-way contest, according to the pollster.
The poll, which has a margin of error of plus or minus 5 percentage points, shows Duggan with a 41-36 percent lead over Benson, a Democrat. Republican Mike Cox, former attorney general, received 10 percent, with 13 percent undecided.
"Neither Benson nor Duggan is dominating the city, and the poll shows a statistical tie," said Ed Sarpolus, executive director of Target Insyght of Lansing, who conducted the poll.
"Duggan is dependent on Detroit—that's where everybody knows him. Benson needs Detroit to win. If they both split the Detroit vote, that could cost them the election and give it to the Republican candidate."
Duggan, a lifelong Democrat running as an Independent, is hoping to lure the state's Republicans and Independents while holding on to the strong Democratic base of Detroit voters who have supported him during his three terms, Sarpolus said.
Benson, who has enjoyed popularity as secretary of state, also hopes to appeal to Independents and Republicans around Michigan while winning over the Democratic base in Detroit.
The poll surveyed 400 active voters and was conducted between Feb. 24-26. Forty-seven percent were between 18 and 60 years old, while 53 percent were 61 or older. Of the respondents, 59 percent were women and 41 percent were men.
Among men, Duggan had the most support with 44 percent, followed by Benson with 25 percent. Cox had 18 percent support, and 14 percent were undecided.
Among women, Benson had 44 percent support, followed by Duggan with 38 percent, and 5 percent for Cox. Another 13 percent were undecided.
Among Black voters, Duggan led with 49 percent, followed by Benson with 35 percent, and Cox with 4 percent. Another 12 percent were undecided.
Among White voters, Benson led with 42 percent, followed by Cox with 25 percent, and Duggan with 22 percent. Another 11 percent were undecided.
