Pete Buttigieg’s Decision to Skip Michigan’s Senate Race: A Strategic Move with 2028 in Sight
Pete Buttigieg, the former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and a 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, announced on Thursday that he will not run for Michigan’s open Senate seat in 2026. This decision, shared through his Substack page, not only surprised political observers but also strategically positions him for a potential 2028 presidential bid. Buttigieg acknowledged the deep bench of Democratic talent in Michigan, expressing confidence that the party will field strong candidates for both the Senate and gubernatorial races. While he refrained from explicitly mentioning his future ambitions, his announcement hinted at a continued focus on national politics and a desire to remain relevant on the political stage.
By opting out of the Michigan races, Buttigieg avoids the challenges of running for state office while maintaining his visibility as a national figure. Many Democrats had speculated about his potential Senate candidacy, particularly as Senator Gary Peters prepares to retire. However, Buttigieg’s decision reflects a calculated choice to prioritize his long-term goals over immediate opportunities. A person familiar with his deliberations revealed that he concluded he could not simultaneously run for state office and prepare for another presidential campaign. This move sets him up as a strong contender for the 2028 Democratic primary, positioning him to build momentum early in the race.
In his Substack post, Buttigieg emphasized his gratitude for the opportunity to step back from Washington, D.C., while reaffirming his commitment to shaping the country’s future. He expressed a desire to spend more time with his husband, Chasten, and their twin toddlers, signaling a personal and professional pivot. He also outlined his plans to engage more deeply with both traditional and digital media, advocating for a “politics of everyday life” rooted in values such as freedom, security, and democracy. Additionally, he vowed to collaborate with a diverse network of partners and allies to address pressing issues, including the prosperity of the industrial Midwest, climate action, and democratic reform.
Buttigieg’s announcement effectively sidelines him from Michigan’s highly competitive 2026 races, clearing the path for other Democratic hopefuls. Among those eyeing the Senate seat are Representative Haley Stevens, a moderate from suburban Detroit; State Senator Mallory McMorrow, whose impassioned speech defending progressive values went viral in 2022; and Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive leader with a strong base in Wayne County. The gubernatorial race is equally crowded, with Governor Gretchen Whitmer term-limited and unable to seek reelection. Both contests are expected to be fierce, with Democrats vying to maintain control in a battleground state that has been pivotal in recent elections.
Despite his decision to forgo the Senate race, Buttigieg’s influence in Michigan politics remains significant. He has only been a Michigan resident since 2022, moving to Traverse City after years in Indiana, where he served as mayor of South Bend. Acknowledging his relatively recent arrival in the state, he expressed humility about his standing in Michigan politics, though he noted his Midwestern roots. This self-awareness likely factored into his decision, as he seeks to avoid being labeled a “carpetbagger,” a criticism that could have overshadowed his campaign.
Looking ahead, Buttigieg’s focus appears to be on building a platform for 2028. His Substack post highlighted his accomplishments as Secretary of Transportation, particularly his role in advancing the Biden administration’s infrastructure package. He emphasized his proximity to numerous ongoing transportation projects funded by the legislation, showcasing his policy expertise and tangible achievements. These points likely preview the themes of a future campaign, positioning him as a pragmatic leader capable of delivering results on issues critical to the nation’s future.
In the meantime, the Buttigieg family continues to make waves in Michigan. Chasten Buttigieg, Pete’s husband, is set to release a children’s book titled Papa’s Coming Home this spring, with a book tour scheduled to begin in Traverse City. The book’s release will not only deepen the family’s connection to their adopted state but also keep the Buttigieg name in the public eye. As Pete Buttigieg navigates this transitional phase in his career, his decision to skip the 2026 Senate race underscores his broader ambitions and sets the stage for what could be another historic presidential campaign in 2028.
