SAUGATUCK, Mich. — Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is gearing up to announce his decision not to pursue an open U.S. Senate seat in Michigan. His announcement could pave the way for a potential bid as the Democratic Party’s future presidential nominee.
Since concluding his tenure with the Biden administration in late January, Buttigieg has been evaluating his next political steps, including a serious consideration of the vacant U.S. Senate seat in Michigan, where he has relocated in recent years. However, many of his prominent allies believe that pursuing a Senate campaign would complicate his aspirations for a 2028 presidential run.
A reliable source close to Buttigieg, who prefers to remain anonymous, confirmed that Buttigieg is poised to announce his decision later on Thursday. This news comes on the heels of a report from Politico.
Although Buttigieg’s decision may complicate the Democratic Party’s efforts to hold onto a crucial Senate seat in 2026, it could enhance their search for a new national leader to challenge former President Donald Trump. This decision follows New Hampshire Democrat Sen. Jeanne Shaheen’s recent announcement that she will not seek re-election next year.
Buttigieg initially entered the presidential race in 2020 as the relatively unknown mayor of South Bend, Indiana, and notably exceeded the expectations of more seasoned Democrats during the Iowa caucuses. Although he eventually exited the race, President Biden selected him to serve as the U.S. transportation secretary.
Recognized as one of the Democratic Party’s most proficient communicators, Buttigieg enjoys a substantial following on social media, possesses a nationwide donor network, and has a Midwestern charm that is impactful both on Fox News interviews and in personalized settings. Currently residing in Traverse City, Michigan, Buttigieg has been rapidly expanding his network in this pivotal swing state, which could host one of the country’s early presidential primaries.
Buttigieg’s decision not to vie for Michigan’s Senate seat leaves the race open for those aiming to succeed Democratic Senator Gary Peters, who made the unforeseen announcement earlier this year of not pursuing re-election in 2026. Michigan state Senator Mallory McMorrow is preparing a campaign, while U.S. Representative Haley Stevens is weighing her options as well.
While no Republican has held a U.S. Senate seat in Michigan this century, the GOP’s Mike Rogers came narrowly close to victory last fall and plans to make another attempt.
