Great Lakes Wire

U.S. Senator Gary Peters from Oakland County has announced he will not seek reelection in 2026, after completing two terms in office. In a video posted on YouTube, the 66-year-old senator expressed his desire to "pass the torch" to a new generation of leaders and spend more time with his family, particularly his grandchild in California.

Political science professor Dave Dulio from Oakland University commented that Peters' decision is unlikely to influence other congressional members to retire before age 70. He noted that Peters is highly regarded within the Democratic Party due to his role on the campaign arm and the appropriations committee. Dulio remarked that Peters is "arguably in his prime as a legislator."

Former U.S. Representative Fred Upton acknowledged that chairing the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee for two consecutive cycles could be exhausting, adding that he wasn't surprised by Peters' decision not to run again.

Dulio mentioned that although he has no predictions about any future office Peters might pursue, politics often leaves room for unexpected developments: “never say never in politics.” He also suggested that being part of a minority in a Republican-dominated government might allow Peters to take more assertive stances during his final term without concern for reelection.

Reflecting on past achievements, Peters stated that during the 117th Congress, he authored and sponsored more bills enacted into law than any other senator in over four decades. Despite this record, Dulio observed some surprising affirmative votes by Peters during recent cabinet confirmations.

The upcoming 2026 election coincides with what Dulio described as a Trump midterm vote. Historically, such elections have been challenging for the party of a second-term president, potentially favoring Democrats this time around.

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor emphasized the importance of selecting a candidate who represents working families and Michigan's diverse industries to succeed Peters. Schor recounted an experience working with Peters on legislation regarding convicted felons purchasing body armor, which led to successful legal reforms.

Schor praised Peters as both a mentor and public servant: “He’s a wonderful man. He deserves time with his family and his new grandchild.”

When asked about U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin stepping into her role as Michigan's senior senator early in her first term, Schor expressed confidence in her abilities: “She is so capable,” he said.

U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell highlighted their collaborative efforts on various issues like PFAS contamination and strengthening local manufacturing. She stated: “Our state is better thanks to his service, and I wish him the best in what he decides to do next.”