LANSING, Mich. — In a move that has shocked Michigan’s political landscape, U.S. Senator Gary Peters announced on Tuesday that he will not seek re-election in 2026, after serving two terms in the Senate. The 66-year-old Democrat, who has played a central role in his party’s Senate campaign efforts over the past two election cycles, revealed his decision at a time when Michigan is poised to become a major battleground in the upcoming elections.
Peters’ unexpected retirement sets the stage for a highly contested race, with both Democrats and Republicans eyeing the open seat in a state that has become increasingly competitive. The announcement also comes as Michigan faces a challenging period, with Democrats attempting to hold onto both the gubernatorial and Senate races in 2026, which could split the party’s focus and resources.
Having narrowly lost Michigan to Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential race, Democrats now face the uphill task of defending a critical Senate seat without the advantage of an incumbent. Currently, Republicans hold a slim majority in the Senate, making this an essential contest in the battle for control of the chamber.
Among the names expected to be mentioned as potential candidates for the Senate seat is former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Buttigieg, who moved to Michigan in recent years, is seen as a prominent figure who could draw significant attention to the race. However, with a crowded field likely to emerge, it remains to be seen who will ultimately secure the Democratic nomination.
Peters, who has served in the Senate since 2014 after three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, has been a moderate and often quiet force in Washington. His leadership in the Senate, particularly as chair of the Homeland Security Committee and later as ranking member, has earned him respect across the aisle. His work on issues like national defense, job creation, and health care has shaped his reputation as a diligent public servant.
Peters played a key role in the 2022 midterms, helping Democrats hold control of the Senate, but his party lost the majority in the chamber after several contentious races in 2024, further complicating their efforts to regain control.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who has worked closely with Peters, issued a statement expressing her gratitude for his years of service. “Senator Gary Peters has been a steadfast champion for Michigan,” Whitmer said. “As a member of the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, he has fought tirelessly to create good-paying jobs, bring manufacturing back to our state, strengthen our auto industry, lower Michiganders’ health care costs and protect reproductive freedom.”
Senator Elissa Slotkin, who won a hard-fought race to hold onto the Senate seat vacated by Debbie Stabenow in 2024, also weighed in, praising Peters for his commitment to Michigan and the nation. “Gary is a true public servant who has devoted his life to making Michigan and our country better,” Slotkin said in a statement. “He’s been a mentor and a dear friend, and he will be greatly missed around the Senate.”
The decision by Peters to step down is yet another blow to Democrats as they navigate a challenging political environment in Michigan. The state, which has become a key swing state in national elections, will undoubtedly see fierce competition in the race to fill Peters’ seat.
With the 2026 election still several years away, Michigan’s political landscape is sure to evolve in the months and years to come, as both parties prepare for what promises to be a high-stakes battle for control of the U.S. Senate.
