Democratic Senator Gary Peters of Michigan has announced that he will not seek re-election in 2026, marking the end of his tenure in the U.S. Senate after two terms. The 66-year-old senator’s decision creates an open seat in one of the nation’s most critical battleground states, setting the stage for a fiercely contested race that could have significant implications for control of the Senate.
In an exclusive interview with The Detroit News, Peters explained his decision, citing a desire to spend more time with his family and pursue other opportunities outside of public office. “I always thought there would be a time that I would step aside and pass the reins for the next generation,” Peters said. “I’m proud of the work I’ve done, but there are other ways I can give back to the community.”
Peters, who was first elected to the Senate in 2014, has been a key figure in Michigan politics for over a decade. Before his Senate career, he served three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and held various leadership roles, including chairing the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. Known for his bipartisan approach, Peters has been recognized as one of the most effective lawmakers in Congress, with a legislative record that includes efforts to protect the Great Lakes, address cybersecurity threats, and support Michigan’s auto industry.
A Pivotal Moment for Michigan Politics
Peters’ retirement comes at a time of heightened political activity in Michigan. The state has been a focal point in recent elections, with narrow margins determining outcomes in both the presidential and Senate races. In 2024, Michigan voted for former President Donald Trump, underscoring its status as a swing state.
The open Senate seat is expected to draw significant attention from both parties. Democrats, who are aiming to regain control of the Senate after losing their majority in 2024, will face the challenge of defending the seat without the advantage of an incumbent. Meanwhile, Republicans see an opportunity to flip the seat in a state that has trended more competitive in recent years.
Potential Democratic contenders for the seat include Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who is term-limited and has ruled out a Senate run, and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who recently moved to Michigan. Other names being floated include Attorney General Dana Nessel, Representative Rashida Tlaib, and state Senator Mallory McMorrow, whose profile has risen in recent years.
On the Republican side, possible candidates include former Representative Mike Rogers, who ran unsuccessfully for Senate in 2024, and Representative John James, who has previously contested Senate races in Michigan. The GOP has not won a Senate seat in the state since 1994, but Peters’ retirement could provide a fresh opening.
Peters’ Legacy and Future Plans
During his time in the Senate, Peters focused on issues critical to Michigan, including environmental protection, veterans’ affairs, and economic development. He played a key role in securing funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and led efforts to address PFAS contamination in drinking water. Peters also championed legislation to support Michigan’s auto industry, including provisions in the CHIPS and Science Act to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing.
Peters’ leadership extended beyond Michigan, as he chaired the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee during the 2022 and 2024 election cycles. Under his guidance, Democrats expanded their Senate majority in 2022 but faced setbacks in 2024, losing several key seats.
Looking ahead, Peters has expressed interest in spending more time with his family, including his new grandchild, and exploring opportunities outside of elected office. “I’m not retiring from public service,” he said. “I’m just not running for re-election in the Senate. There are other ways I can contribute.”
A High-Stakes Race in 2026
The 2026 Senate race in Michigan is expected to be one of the most closely watched contests in the country. With control of the Senate potentially hanging in the balance, both parties are likely to pour significant resources into the race. The outcome could hinge on voter turnout in key areas, including Detroit, the suburbs of Oakland County, and rural parts of the state.
As Michigan prepares for this pivotal election, Peters’ departure marks the end of an era for the state’s Democratic Party. His decision underscores the generational shift taking place in Michigan politics, as new leaders emerge to shape the state’s future.
For now, Peters remains focused on finishing his term, pledging to continue his work on issues important to Michiganders. “There’s still a lot of work to do,” he said. “I’m committed to making the most of my remaining time in the Senate and ensuring a smooth transition for whoever takes my place.”
The race to succeed Peters is already shaping up to be a defining moment in Michigan’s political landscape, with national implications for the balance of power in Washington.