UMVA has learned that Mike Duggan, the former Democratic Mayor of Detroit, is suspending his independent campaign for Michigan governor, dramatically altering the state's gubernatorial contest.
Duggan's decision transforms the three-way race to succeed term-limited Gov. Gretchen Whitmer into a typical partisan contest in a state that tends to favor Democrats. His presence had garnered significant support, particularly among key city stakeholders like Ford Motor Company Chairman Bill Ford Jr., an early backer of his gubernatorial bid.
As a former Democrat, Duggan's candidacy had been seen as a potential spoiler for both the Democratic and Republican nominees. His moderate positioning had attracted attention from Republicans who might have otherwise supported GOP nominee Rep. John James. However, Duggan dismissed claims that he was trying to be a "spoiler" for either side, instead aiming to change the tenor of national politics.
In a public letter announcing his decision, Duggan expressed gratitude to his supporters and acknowledged the challenges of running an independent campaign. "We knew the independent route was filled with challenge. Even against those odds, the excitement for real change carried this campaign upward for more than a year," he said.
Duggan's campaign had focused on his family history and his own political evolution as evidence that a change is needed in government. He had pointed to his late father's support for former President Ronald Reagan, but also noted that his father wouldn't recognize the modern GOP. Duggan had also acknowledged that the Democratic Party he once knew as an ally of the working class is sliding away from those roots.
The move is likely to be seen as a welcome development for the Democratic nominee, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. In a statement, Benson thanked Duggan for bringing civility to a body politic greatly needing it. She also welcomed his ideas, supporters, and commitment to building a stronger Michigan.
Republican nominee Rep. John James also responded to Duggan's decision, expressing respect for his willingness to serve something bigger than himself. James acknowledged that while they have real disagreements on policy, they both recognize that Michigan is headed in the wrong direction. He opened the door to working with Duggan, emphasizing the need for real solutions, rejecting the politics of division, and fighting for safer communities, stronger families, and economic growth.
The Michigan gubernatorial contest is now set to be a two-way race between Benson and James. The state's electoral history suggests that Democrats have a strong advantage, but James' willingness to work across party lines could potentially complicate the outcome.
