Pete Buttigieg is considering running for Senate in Michigan, where Sen. Gary Peters has announced he will not seek re-election in 2026.
The former transportation secretary and presidential candidate says he wants to stay involved and is weighing his options.
Key Facts:
- Buttigieg met with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to discuss a potential campaign.
- Gary Peters has held his Michigan seat since 2015 and plans to retire after two terms.
- Other Democrats interested in the race include State Sen. Mallory McMorrow and Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.
- Former Rep. Mike Rogers, a Republican, has also indicated interest in a 2026 Senate run.
- Republicans currently control the Senate with a 53-47 majority, having flipped four seats in 2024.
The Rest of The Story:
Michigan’s upcoming Senate race is shaping up to be a closely watched contest.
With Sen. Peters stepping aside, the field is attracting new and established figures from both parties.
Buttigieg, who rose to national prominence in the 2020 presidential primaries, recently moved to Michigan and has remained politically active after leaving the Biden administration.
Several Democrats are exploring possible bids, including McMorrow and Nessel, while Republicans like Rogers and potentially Rep. John James may challenge for the seat.
đź“Š 2026 Michigan Senate Poll
🟥 Mike Rogers: 47%
🟦 Pete Buttigieg: 41%
—
⬜ Undecided: 12%EPIC-MRA | 2/3-8 | n=600 | ±4%https://t.co/RloFClEYoV pic.twitter.com/t01lmeGfwj
— InteractivePolls (@IAPolls2022) February 11, 2025
The contest is expected to be part of a broader political landscape in 2026, with other high-profile Senate seats also in play across the country.
Commentary:
Buttigieg’s record as transportation secretary left many questioning his leadership.
Airline disruptions and a shortage of qualified air traffic controllers plagued travelers on his watch, while he appeared more focused on promoting diversity and inclusion programs than resolving critical infrastructure needs.
He did little to address the long-term fixes needed for America’s transportation systems, putting cosmetic changes ahead of real solutions.
Such an approach raises doubts about his readiness for the significant demands of a Senate seat.
It would be a major gamble for Michigan voters to place him there, given the problems he did not solve in his previous role.
Regardless of who runs, power frequently changes hands during midterm cycles, and Republicans will be on defense this time.
Much will depend on whether Trump’s economic policies can deliver a stronger recovery, easing the financial burdens many Americans still feel.
If the economy remains sluggish, Buttigieg and other Democrats might find themselves in a better position to sway voters in 2026.
The Bottom Line:
Buttigieg’s potential Senate run in Michigan points to a wide-open race.
The outcome will affect the balance of power in Washington, with Republicans now holding a narrow majority.
Voters will ultimately weigh Buttigieg’s performance as transportation secretary against the aspirations of other candidates.
As the 2026 race nears, the debate over the economy, infrastructure, and leadership will likely intensify.
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