Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has announced he will not run for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat or for governor in 2026. Buttigieg, who moved to Michigan in 2022, had been considered a strong contender for the Senate race.
His decision leaves the field open for other Democratic candidates while fueling speculation about a potential presidential bid in 2028. Buttigieg previously ran for president in 2020, gaining national recognition before joining the Biden administration.
His move suggests he is keeping his options open for a future White House run.
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Pete Buttigieg won't seek US Senate seat in Michigan, leaving door wide open for 2028 run
SAUGATUCK, Mich. — (AP) — Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced that he will not seek an open U.S. Senate seat in Michigan, a move that leaves the door wide open for him to seek a much bigger role as his party's next presidential nominee.
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Pete Buttigieg passes on bid for Michigan Senate and governor, setting up possible 2028 run
Pete Buttigieg announced Thursday he will not run for Michigan’s governorship or the state’s open US Senate seat in 2026, setting up a potential presidential bid in 2028.
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Pete Buttigieg, a Possible 2028 Contender, Won’t Run for Senate in Michigan
The former transportation secretary, who moved to Michigan from Indiana in 2022, had been seen as the most prominent potential candidate in next year’s marquee contest.
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