LANSING, MI – Michigan Senator Gary Peters, a Democrat who has served two terms in the U.S. Senate and previously led the Democratic Senate campaign efforts, has announced that he will not seek reelection in 2026. In a video shared on social media Tuesday and first reported by The Detroit News, Peters revealed his decision to step away, marking the end of his nearly two-decade-long congressional career and setting the stage for a highly contested battle for the open Senate seat.
“After three terms in the House and two terms in the Senate, I believe now is the time for me to write a few more paragraphs in my current chapter and then turn over the reins,” Peters said in his announcement. “I will therefore not seek reelection in 2026.”
Peters, 66, has been a steady figure in Michigan politics, known for his moderate approach and ability to navigate bipartisan issues. First elected to the Senate in 2014 after serving three terms in the U.S. House, Peters chaired the Senate Homeland Security Committee from 2021 to 2025 and recently completed his tenure as chair of the Senate Democrats’ campaign arm.
The senator’s retirement sets up a significant political battle during the 2026 midterms, with Michigan already playing a pivotal role in national elections. Democrats will face the challenge of defending the seat without the advantage of an incumbent, a difficult task in a state that voted for former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election.
Possible candidates
The announcement has already prompted speculation about potential candidates for the open seat. Among the Democrats, former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who moved to Michigan after his 2020 presidential bid, is reportedly considering a run. Buttigieg had been weighing a gubernatorial campaign but may shift his focus to the Senate race.
Republicans, meanwhile, are eyeing the opportunity to flip the seat. U.S. Rep. John James, a two-time Senate candidate who narrowly lost to Peters in 2020, could be a strong contender. James, who currently represents a suburban Detroit district, hinted at optimism for the state’s future in a post on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after Peters’ announcement, saying, “Brighter days are ahead for Michigan!”
The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) has also signaled its intent to target the seat. “Gary Peters is reading the room,” NRSC Chair Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) said in a statement. “Michigan is better off without him. We’re committed to giving them a fighter that will stand with President Trump to restore the economic prosperity and security of our country.”
2026 Gubernatorial race takes shape
Peters’ decision comes at a challenging time for Michigan Democrats, who are already preparing for a competitive gubernatorial race in 2026. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who is term-limited, has confirmed she will not run for the Senate. Speaking on ABC’s “The View,” Whitmer said, “I’ve got two more years on my term. I’ve got a lot of things I want to get done as governor. What comes after that, I don’t know yet.”
The Democratic field is expected to be crowded, with candidates potentially split between the gubernatorial and Senate races. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has announced her campaign for governor, adding another high-profile name to the race. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has already launched his campaign as an independent, while Republican Senate Majority Leader Aric Nesbitt has declared his candidacy for the governorship.
A new chapter for Peters
Peters’ legacy in the Senate includes leadership roles during critical periods, including his work on homeland security and his efforts to help Democrats navigate tight Senate races. He has emphasized the importance of passing the torch to the next generation of leaders.
“I always thought there would be a time that I would step aside and pass the reins for the next generation,” Peters told The Detroit News. “I also never saw service in Congress as something you do your whole life.”
As the political landscape in Michigan reshapes, the 2026 Senate race will undoubtedly attract national attention, with both parties viewing it as a crucial battleground in the fight for control of the Senate.
