...
By Lilith Foster-Collins
News Reporter
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Democratic Michigan Senator Gary Peters has announced he will not seek a third term in 2026, giving Republicans a top target in a state likely to become a major midterm battleground.
Peters, who won reelection in 2020 by a narrow margin of less than 2 points, surprised many with his decision.
Why It Matters
Peters' departure means Democrats must defend a crucial Senate seat without the advantage of incumbency.
Read More on News
Michigan has been a pivotal state in recent elections, and the outcome could influence control of the Senate, where Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority.
...
What to Know
Peters, 66, revealed his decision Tuesday in a YouTube video, stating: "After three terms in the House and two terms in the Senate, I believe now is time for me to write a few more paragraphs in my current chapter and then turn over the reins. I will therefore not seek reelection in 2026."
First elected to the Senate in 2014 after three terms in the U.S. House, Peters has built a reputation as a moderate and mild-mannered lawmaker.
He chaired the Senate Homeland Security Committee from 2021 to 2025 and currently serves as its ranking member.
Peters earned praise from Democrats for leading successful Senate campaign efforts during the 2022 midterms.
However, in 2024, Republicans flipped several key seats, costing Democrats their majority in the chamber.
President Donald Trump has won Michigan twice, topping former Vice President Kamala Harris by 1.6 percentage points to take the state back in 2024.
The announcement intensifies a challenging period for Michigan Democrats, who now face the dual task of defending Peters' seat and preparing for a competitive gubernatorial race.
Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer is term-limited and the field for her successor is already crowded.
Potential Candidates
Pete Buttigieg, the former U.S. transportation secretary, moved to Michigan in recent years, and is considered a top contender for the Senate seat.
Buttigieg has also received calls urging him to run for governor.
Mallory McMorrow, a state senator who's profile has risen nationally following a viral speech she gave in 2022, could be sought as a candidate.
This marks the second consecutive election cycle where Michigan Democrats must defend an open Senate seat.
In 2024, longtime Senator Debbie Stabenow retired after serving four terms. Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin narrowly retained that seat for the party in a tight race.
What People Are Saying
Michigan Senator Gary Peters said in a statement: "My service in the Congress has been the honor of my life. It has been a humbling responsibility given to me by the voters of the state I love."
"When I was first elected to Congress in 2008, I always knew there would come a time to pass the torch to the next generation of public servants and allow them the opportunity to bring fresh energy and ideas to our nation's capital."
"I have two more years remaining in my current term and there is more work to do."
"Although I will not be on the ballot next year, I will not just walk away. I plan to actively campaign to ensure we elect a dynamic Democratic candidate to be the next U.S. Senator from Michigan."
"I am leaving Congress, but I am not retiring."
What Happens Next
Peters' decision sets up a high-stakes midterm election in Michigan.
Both parties are expected to heavily invest in the Senate race, with the outcome influencing the balance of power in the chamber.
Associated Press writer Isabella Volmert contributed to this report.
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines