Summary
Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has ended his independent campaign for governor of Michigan, stating that the political landscape has shifted in favor of Democrats. Duggan left the Democratic Party in late 2024 to offer voters a third option.
Key Details
- Duggan's campaign announced its conclusion on Thursday.
- He noted the political landscape now favors Democrats, making his independent campaign less viable.
- "I got into this race to try to change our politics, not to be a spoiler," Duggan said.
- Internal polling showed Duggan trailing Democratic candidate Jocelyn Benson by 11 points in a three-way matchup with Republican John James.
- Fundraising difficulties and a lack of major-party infrastructure contributed to the campaign's challenges.
- Duggan attributed obstacles to the national political climate, including anger over gas prices related to the Iran war.
- He left the Democratic Party after the 2024 presidential election.
"I got into this race to try to change our politics, not to be a spoiler."
— Mike Duggan
Reactions & Analysis
- Republican pollster Steve Mitchell said Duggan's campaign was poll-driven and had no path to win.
- Democratic strategist Adrian Hemond noted that the independent candidacy made sense only in the context of 2024 party brands.
- Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel Jr. praised Duggan and welcomed his supporters.
- GOP consultant Scott Greenlee expressed surprise at the early exit.
- Jocelyn Benson thanked Duggan and welcomed his supporters.
- John James thanked Duggan and said Michigan is headed in the wrong direction.
"I got into this race to try to change our politics, not to be a spoiler."
— Mike Duggan