Democratic Sen. Gary Peters won’t run for re-election in Michigan in 2026, creating a pivotal open Senate seat in one of the most tightly divided battleground states in the U.S.

Aric Nesbitt, a Republican from Lawton, held the top Republican role in the state Senate as its minority leader during the recently concluded legislative session in Lansing.

MICHIGAN — Michigan voters will choose a new governor in November 2026. Current Governor Gretchen Whitmer is term-limited after serving back-to-back four year stints in Lansing. We are keeping track of candidates who throw their hats in the ring below.

(CBS DETROIT) - Aric Nesbitt has announced his campaign for Michigan governor, entering a 2026 race that is expected to be competitive as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ends her time in that office.

Democratic Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan announced Tuesday that he will not seek reelection in 2026, leaving Congress at the end of his second term and opening up a highly competitive battleground Senate seat.

The Michigan Senate is expected to take up legislation to dial back coming changes to the state’s minimum wage law soon. That’s after the state House approved the changes Thursday. State Senator Aric

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson (D) announced she is running for governor on Wednesday, becoming the first major Democratic candidate to jump into the race. “I’m running for

Michigan will see a major change come 2026, as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, due to term limits, will not be able to seek reelection. This means the State’s highest office will be up for grabs with no incumbent in place,

Benson, a Democrat, is among the well-known politicians who have announced plans for the governor race in recent weeks. Republican legislator Aric Nesbitt announced his campaign Jan. 14; Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan announced in December that he would run as an independent.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announces her bid for governor, emphasizing service and efficiency.

Ms. Benson, a Democrat, jumped into a high-profile and potentially crowded race to lead one of the country’s top battleground states.

After Sen. Gary Peters' surprise announcement, Michigan Republicans are hoping for their first Senate win in the 21st century.