(DETROIT) - A new statewide poll indicates the race to become Michigan's next governor is effectively a dead heat among three leading candidates.
The February survey conducted by the Glengariff Group for the Detroit Regional Chamber shows independent candidate and former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan narrowly leading with 30.1 percent support. Republican U.S. Representative John James follows at 28.9 percent, while Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is close behind at 28.0 percent.
The tight margins suggest Duggan's independent campaign is reshaping the traditionally two-party contest as voters consider alternatives outside the Republican and Democratic nominees.
Earlier polling in January had James in the lead, but the new results show the field tightening significantly as the race to succeed term-limited Governor Gretchen Whitmer intensifies.
The survey also found differences in voter enthusiasm. Democratic voters reported higher motivation to participate in the election than Republicans, a factor analysts say could influence turnout.
Within their parties, Benson remains the clear favorite for the Democratic nomination, while James leads a crowded Republican field. With a strong independent candidate in the race, analysts say the next governor could potentially win with less than 40 percent of the vote -- something that would be unprecedented in Michigan.