Former US transportation chief Pete Buttigieg opts out of Senate run

WASHINGTON

Former US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced Thursday he will not run for one of Michigan’s Senate seats next year, or for governor.

"I care deeply about who Michigan will elect as Governor and send to the U.S. Senate next year, but I have decided against competing in either race," Buttigieg said on X.

"I remain enthusiastic about helping candidates who share our values – and who understand that in this moment, leadership means not only opposing today’s cruel chaos, but also presenting a vision of a better alternative," he added.

Before leading the Transportation Department under the Biden administration, which ended this January, Buttigieg was the mayor of South Bend, Indiana, from 2012 to 2020.

He also sought the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination.

While Michigan’s Senate seat will be a competitive one as Republicans seek to maintain a majority in the chamber, Buttigieg's move builds speculation about a potential presidential run in 2028.

Both of Michigan’s Senate seats are currently held by Democrats, but Sen. Gary Peters has said he will not seek reelection.

Michigan’s Democratic governor, Gretchen Whitmer, cannot seek another term under state law. Her tenure is set to end in January 2027.