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By Matthew Impelli
Life & Trends Reporter
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Mike Duggan, the mayor of Detroit, announced this week that he's leaving the Democratic Party to run as an independent for Michigan's governor in 2026.
"It's clear to me that there are a lot of people in this country who are tired of both parties and tired of the system," Duggan, 66, said this week. "And so I want to offer people a choice."
Duggan's Decision
Duggan is widely recognized for steering the city through its post-bankruptcy revival. He discussed his political ambitions with The Associated Press prior to announcing his plans to run for governor in a video released Wednesday morning, in which he will aim to succeed Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
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Whitmer, who is completing her second term, is barred from running again due to Michigan's term-limit laws.
The mayor's announcement arrives at a pivotal moment for Michigan Democrats, who are grappling with political challenges in a key battleground state. Once instrumental in delivering Donald Trump's 2016 presidential victory, Michigan has seen the Democratic Party's fortunes shift. Despite securing a legislative majority just two years ago for the first time in decades, Democrats faced recent electoral losses that have left party leaders searching for answers and a clear strategy to regain momentum.
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Even so, the decision by the mayor of Michigan's largest city—a critical Democratic stronghold—to sever ties with his party has left many observers stunned.
Independent Run
Duggan explained that his decision was driven by a belief that he could lead more effectively outside the confines of partisan politics.
"You have a (state) legislature that's almost evenly divided that makes the stakes of each issue become magnified," Duggan said. "It has gotten harder and harder to address things as the partisan climate has gotten more toxic."
State of the Michigan Governor Race
Duggan's move may also reflect a strategic decision to sidestep a Democratic primary already brimming with potential contenders. High-profile names in the mix include Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist III and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson.
Adding to the speculation, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who made Michigan his home in 2022, has emerged as another potential contender for the Democratic gubernatorial race.
Last month, Buttigieg was asked by The Associated Press about a potential gubernatorial run. He said, "Right now, it's hard to see past Election Day. After that, I'll figure out how to make myself useful. But what I know is I really care about what happens in this state."
The Republican field is also taking shape with several prominent figures eyeing a gubernatorial bid. Potential contenders include Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, former state Attorney General Mike Cox, former state Representative Tom Leonard and U.S. Representative John James. Tudor Dixon, who secured the Republican nomination in 2022, is reportedly weighing another campaign.
Duggan expressed confidence in his ability to connect with voters across the political spectrum, emphasizing his appeal to both Democrats and Republicans.
"I expect to pull votes away from both allowing me to win," Duggan said. "That's the only scenario that I've thought about."
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
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