Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, a Democrat, has announced he will run as an independent candidate for Michigan governor in 2026. He aims to bring people together and focus on solutions rather than political fighting. Duggan highlighted his support for civil rights, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ rights, while also facing criticism from his own party for giving police officers a raise. He is the first major candidate to enter the race, which is expected to be closely watched nationally.
Current Governor Gretchen Whitmer is term-limited and cannot run for re-election. Potential Democratic candidates for governor include Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow. On the Republican side, Tudor Dixon, the 2022 GOP nominee, is considering another run, with Reps. John James and Lisa McClain also mentioned as potential candidates.
Michigan has been a closely divided state in recent elections, with Trump narrowly winning in 2020. The Democratic primary is expected to be crowded, with prominent candidates considering a run. Duggan’s decision to run as an independent adds another layer of uncertainty to the race. Whitmer is seen as a potential presidential contender in 2028, further adding to the significance of the 2026 gubernatorial race in Michigan.
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