Buttigieg rules out Michigan governor and Senate bids

• A 2026 win would have "almost certainly" ruled out a 2028 presidential bid, Democratic operative David Axelrod told Politico. Buttigieg's decision to pass on both 2026 races leaves him with an open pathway to pursuing a presidential campaign.

The big picture: "I care deeply about the outcome of both races, but I have decided against competing in either," Buttigieg wrote in a Substack announcement.

• "My party has a deep and talented bench here in Michigan, and I am certain that we will nominate an outstanding candidate for each office."

Zoom out: Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.) announced his retirement in January, opening up unexpected Senate seat in the battleground state.

• The campaign to fill his seat is expected to be one of the most expensive Senate races in the country.
• The governor's race is also set to be high profile, as current Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) is term-limited.

What he's saying: "I am simultaneously thankful to be away from Washington and yet also more motivated than ever to contribute to the future of this country," Buttigieg wrote.

• He said he'll continue his focus on matters like the industrial Midwest, infrastructure, climate change and democratic reform, while also "engaging both legacy and digital media."

Between the lines: Buttigieg was previously reported as having passed on the governor's race.

• His decision to pass on the Senate race was more surprising, as he had reportedly met with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer in recent weeks to discuss a Senate bid, per Politico.
• The presidential primary will begin to heat up soon after the 2026 midterm elections.

Go deeper: Michigan, Georgia top hot battlegrounds for 2026