Jocelyn Benson’s husband, real estate executive Ryan Friedrichs, exits state project roles ahead of election

March 21, 2026 - 20:17

Ryan Friedrichs, the husband of Michigan Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson, has resigned from his positions on two key state boards. The move comes as his wife campaigns for the state's highest office.

Friedrichs had served as a citizen member of the Michigan State Transportation Commission and the Mackinac Straits Corridor Authority. His departure from these roles was confirmed by state officials. He has recently assumed a new position as Vice President of Stakeholder and Policy Engagement with the national real estate firm, Related Companies.

While no direct reason for the timing was cited in the announcement, the resignations proactively distance Friedrichs from potential conflicts of interest or perceptions of undue influence. This is a common step for immediate family members of candidates during an active campaign for major executive office. The move allows Benson to focus on her gubernatorial bid while Friedrichs pursues his career in the private sector, maintaining a clear separation from the state projects he previously helped oversee. The transition underscores the heightened scrutiny faced by candidates and their families during election cycles.