Benjamin Josef Mercton, or Benjamin, Earl of Mercton was an Earl of J Andres. He was the eldest child of Richard, Earl of Providence & Madeleine, Countess of Providence. Shortly before Richard's Rebellion, Benjamin ran for President in the 2056 Elections. His bid was unsuccessful. Following the elections, many members of the House of Mercton determined that their time was running out to make a play for the throne of J Andres. As such, Benjamin, in his authority as Earl of Mercton declared royal law and recognized his father's claim for the throne.