Michigan's 2026 Elections Shaping Up with Key Senate and Governor Races

Senator Gary Peters' retirement and multiple open state offices set the stage for competitive contests in the battleground state.

Democratic Senator Gary Peters announced he will not seek reelection in 2026, leaving a key Senate seat open in Michigan, a pivotal swing state.
Former Republican Rep. Mike Rogers, who narrowly lost to Elissa Slotkin in 2024, is strongly considering another Senate run with continued support from Donald Trump.
Potential Democratic candidates for the Senate seat include Pete Buttigieg, Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, and Attorney General Dana Nessel, though no formal announcements have been made.
The governor's race will also see significant competition, with Republican State Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt and Democrat Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson entering early campaigns.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is running for governor as an independent, citing his bipartisan appeal and focus on law enforcement and urban revitalization.