Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s decision not to run for Michigan’s open Senate seat has fueled speculation about his presidential ambitions. The Democrat’s announcement has left political observers wondering if he’s positioning himself for a 2028 White House bid rather than pursuing state-level office.
At a glance:
• Pete Buttigieg announced he will not run for U.S. Senate or Governor in Michigan in 2026
• He cited Michigan Democrats’ “deep and talented bench” as a reason for his decision
• Buttigieg’s decision fuels speculation about a potential 2028 presidential campaign
• Michigan’s Senate seat will be open after Democrat Gary Peters announced he won’t seek reelection
• Buttigieg previously ran for President in 2020 before dropping out and endorsing Joe Biden
Buttigieg Avoids Senate Race, Keeps Options Open
In a statement that surprised few political insiders, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced he will not seek Michigan’s open Senate seat in 2026. The decision comes after weeks of speculation about his political future, with many Democrats hoping the former presidential candidate would throw his hat into the ring.
Buttigieg, who served in the Biden administration as Transportation Secretary, made his announcement on social media platform X and in a blog post titled “I’m Not Running in 2026, But I Am Getting to Work.” His decision leaves the field open for other Democrats while keeping his own options open for what many believe could be another presidential run. Buttigieg entered the 2020 Democratic primaries but dropped out with 17% support.
Democrats Scramble to Fill Michigan Vacancy
“I care deeply about who Michigan will elect as Governor and send to the U.S. Senate next year, but I have decided against competing in either race,” Buttigieg said in his announcement. The former South Bend, Indiana Mayor had been courted by Democratic Party leaders, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who reportedly met with him to discuss a potential candidacy.
With Buttigieg out of the running, Democrats must now look to other candidates to replace retiring Senator Gary Peters. Potential contenders include State Sen. Mallory McMorrow and Rep. Haley Stevens, though the field remains wide open for both parties.
Presidential Ambitions Likely Behind Decision
Political analysts suggest Buttigieg’s decision not to pursue the Senate seat signals his interest in maintaining flexibility for a future presidential run. The former presidential candidate has maintained a high profile since his 2020 campaign, where he became the first openly gay candidate to win a presidential primary contest.
Republicans see opportunity in Michigan’s open Senate seat, with potential candidates including GOP state Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt and former Senate nominee Mike Rogers. The race will be closely watched as both parties vie for control of the upper chamber in what promises to be a competitive cycle.
This makes sense because the 2028 Democrat presidential primary field will need another smug, mid-talent hack. https://t.co/yCBjo7Dcl0
— Tim Murtaugh (@TimMurtaugh) March 13, 2025
