Overview

• Pete Buttigieg is reportedly exploring a run for Michigan's open Senate seat, which will be pivotal in the 2026 elections after Senator Gary Peters announced his retirement.
• Buttigieg's national profile and strong favorability among Michigan Democrats position him as a formidable contender, though his recent move to the state raises potential 'carpetbagging' criticisms.
• Other potential Democratic candidates include Attorney General Dana Nessel, state senator Mallory McMorrow, and Reps. Haley Stevens and Hillary Scholten, among others.
• Republicans, eyeing Michigan as a top target after Donald Trump's 2024 victory in the state, are likely to field Mike Rogers, who narrowly lost a Senate race in 2024, and possibly other high-profile candidates.
• The race is expected to have significant implications for Senate control and could shape the political trajectories of several prominent figures, including Buttigieg, as 2028 presidential speculation looms.