Gary Peters’s decision not to run in 2026 midterms comes as Republican fortunes rise in state
The Michigan Democratic senator Gary Peters said he would not seek re-election in 2026, a decision that could reshape the political battlefield in a state where Republican fortunes are rising.
Peters, 66, told the Detroit News he planned to retire when his second term ends in January 2027, just as Michigan marks a dramatic political shift. His announcement comes as Democrats grapple with the state’s return to swing status, highlighted by Donald Trump’s recent presidential victory there – his second win in Michigan in three attempts.