Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II is running for governor, he announced Tuesday, setting up a Democratic primary clash that includes two prominent statewide officeholders in one of the most tightly divided states.

"We must stand tall against these attacks on our people," the lieutenant governor said. "We must fight for what matters. We must protect our people."

The crowded race for the governor's mansion will be among the most closely watched contests over the next two years.

EXCLUSIVE: The 42-year-old lieutenant governor tells theGrio why he’s the right candidate to take on the “Trump-Musk administration” and lead