Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan Announces Independent Run for Michigan Governor
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan made a significant announcement on Wednesday, revealing his decision to run for Michigan governor as an independent candidate, breaking away from the Democratic Party.
âIâm not running to be the Democratsâ governor or the Republicansâ governor â Iâm running to be your governor,â stated Duggan, a lifelong Democrat, in a video announcement.
As the first official candidate to enter the 2026 gubernatorial race, Duggan is expected to face a crowded field of contenders looking to succeed Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who is ineligible to run for re-election due to term limits.
After serving three terms as mayor, Duggan, the city’s second-longest-serving mayor, announced last month that he would not seek a fourth term, expressing his satisfaction with his accomplishments to the Detroit Free Press.
In his campaign video, Duggan mentioned his disconnection from the traditional political party ideologies and highlighted instances where he clashed with his own party, such as his decision to approve increased overtime pay for Detroit Police officers in 2022 amidst calls to defund the police.
âThere are many individuals in this country who are disillusioned with the current political system. I want to provide them with a different choice,” Duggan shared with The Associated Press.
Duggan assumed office in 2013 when Detroit was facing bankruptcy and is recognized for his successful efforts in revitalizing the city. He secured his re-election in 2021 with an overwhelming 76 percent of the vote.
Expressing his discontent with the current state of political discourse in Michigan, Duggan emphasized the need for a new approach and a governor who operates independently in his campaign video. He aims to bring about a positive change by initiating a conversation about a potential shift in governance.
