Pete Buttigieg Weighing Senate Run

metroweekly.com:

Pete Buttigieg is reportedly “taking a serious look” at running for one of Michigan’s U.S. Senate seats in 2026.“Pete is exploring all of his options on how he can be helpful and continue to serve,” a person close to the former Transportation Secretary told Axios. “He’s honored to be mentioned for this and he’s taking a serious look.”The seat is currently held by Democratic U.S.

Sen. Gary Peters, who was first elected to the upper chamber in 2014 after serving three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.Peters announced his intention to retire at the end of his term on January 28, taking some political observers by surprise.In an interview with The Detroit News, the 66-year-old said he is ready to leave public office in two years and move onto a “new chapter” in his life, including spending more time with his family.“I always thought there would be a time that I would step aside and pass the reins for the next generation,” Peters said. “I also never saw service in Congress as something you do your whole life.”Republicans have already signaled they intend to target the seat.

U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, says Peters’ retirement shows he is “reading the room.”“After spending years ignoring illegal immigration and destroying his state’s auto industry, Michigan is better off without him,” Scott said in a statement. “We’re committed to giving them a fighter that will stand with President Trump to restore the economic prosperity and security of our country.”Peters’ departure could set up a contested Democratic primary.