Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has announced his candidacy for governor of Michigan as an independent, despite his long-standing affiliation with the Democratic Party. This decision comes as the race is poised to be highly competitive.
In an interview with The Associated Press prior to his announcement, Duggan explained that many voters are weary of both political parties and the existing political system, which has motivated him to provide an alternative choice for the electorate.
He made his official announcement for the 2026 gubernatorial race through a video, highlighting his achievements as mayor and advocating for a “whole new approach” with a governor who does not represent either major party.
Mike Duggan steps away from party lines for a whole new approach to leadership
Duggan emphasized, “I’m not running to be the Democrats’ governor or the Republicans’ governor. I’m running to be your governor.” His goal is to succeed current Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who will be term-limited after serving two terms by 2026.
Since taking office in 2014, Duggan has transformed Detroit, winning a write-in campaign to become the city’s first white mayor in decades in a predominantly Black city. He was reelected in 2017 and 2021, maintaining a strong popularity among constituents.
Duggan assumed the mayoralty during a challenging time when Detroit had declared bankruptcy. However, under his leadership, the city has experienced massive recovery. He highlighted improvements such as the lowest unemployment rate in over 30 years, the establishment of new auto plants, investments in affordable housing, and population growth for the first time in more than sixty years during his administration.
Additionally, he noted that the city’s budget has consistently been balanced and that crime rates, including homicides, have decreased. Duggan promised to travel throughout Michigan to engage with residents about the pressing issues they face, a strategy he employed during his initial mayoral campaign.
He pointed out that Michigan is experiencing a concerning trend of young people leaving the state faster than any other, indicating that “real change” is essential for economic revitalization. Duggan also expressed that schools must do more to equip children for future success, emphasizing the need for increased resources and parental involvement in education.
As an early contender in what is expected to be a crowded gubernatorial race, Duggan faces potential competition from within the Democratic Party, where figures such as Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist III, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg are rumored candidates.
On the Republican side, interest has been shown by state Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt and 2022 GOP nominee Tudor Dixon.
