With just over 40 days left as Secretary of Transportation, Pete Buttigieg is generating buzz as a potential candidate for Michigan’s governorship. Though his tenure in President Joe Biden’s administration is winding down, Buttigieg’s political trajectory remains a topic of speculation, particularly after his move to Michigan following his 2020 presidential campaign.
Michigan’s current governor, Democrat Gretchen Whitmer, remains popular after two decisive election victories. However, state law bars her from seeking a third term, leaving the Democratic ticket open for 2026. Recent Republican gains — including taking control of the state House and Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential win in Michigan — have left many Democrats eager for a fresh face to lead their party. Some believe Buttigieg, with his national recognition and administrative experience, could be that candidate.
On Monday, Buttigieg visited Monroe, Michigan, to announce a $196 million federal grant to replace the River Raisin Bridge on I-75, a project labeled one of the nation’s 18 most economically significant bridges. He highlighted the Biden administration’s commitment to infrastructure improvements, stating, “We’ve made good on our promise to address our country’s most economically significant bridges—while also delivering much-needed repairs to thousands of other bridges nationwide.”
During the event, workers at a Detroit-area union hall engaged Buttigieg on Michigan’s culture and politics. While he stumbled on a question about the Detroit Lions’ next opponent, his willingness to engage with diverse viewpoints — including his appearances on Fox News — drew praise. One attendee thanked him for “facing the Fox News crowd” and providing direct answers.
Buttigieg’s blend of national experience, policy achievements, and communication skills has kept him in Democrats’ good graces, both in Michigan and nationwide. Despite the mounting speculation, Buttigieg remained non-committal about his future, stating, “I haven’t made any decisions about, big decisions about my future. And I know that we’ve got six more weeks, and we’re going to sprint through the tape.”
For now, Buttigieg’s potential candidacy remains an open question, but his growing presence in Michigan suggests he may be poised to step in as the state’s Democratic leader when the time comes.
