Updates About Governor

Former Senator Curtis Hertel has announced his candidacy for Michigan Democratic Party chair with Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s endorsement. Hertel, who recently lost a tight congressional race to Republican Tom Barrett, emphasized his commitment to strengthening the party. Hertel has also received vocal support from several Democratic leaders, including U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens and Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter.

The Michigan Democratic Party will elect its next chair at their February convention, following the decision by current chair Lavora Barnes not to seek re-election. Hertel’s experience, including his track record of supporting bipartisan legislation and his hand in securing the state’s 2022 Democratic trifecta are strong points to consider.

Detroit-based activist Al “BJ” Williams is also vying for the position.

Mike Duggan, the current Mayor for Detroit, has officially declared his candidacy for Michigan governor. He surprised Michiganders by sharing that he’s running as an independent rather than with his current affiliation as a Democrat. In his campaign announcement, Duggan emphasized his goal to move beyond partisanship, stating his intent to represent all people in our Great Lakes state. Having served three terms as mayor, Duggan highlighted his achievements in Detroit and expressed a vision to bring similar transformative changes statewide, particularly in education and economic retention of young talent.

Duggan’s run marks a significant moment in Michigan politics, as the state has not elected a non-major-party governor since 1842. His campaign launch follows speculation earlier this year about his political future after he announced he would not be seeking reelection as mayor. The gubernatorial field for 2026 remains open, with potential Republican and Democratic candidates yet to formally declare their intentions.

Governor Whitmer touted Michigan’s strong job growth with the addition of 27,000 jobs in Fiscal Year 2024, signaling ongoing economic expansion. The construction sector reached a two-decade high, employing over 200,000 people, while Michigan’s labor participation rate rose above 62%—its best level since 2009. Key data from the Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB) shows Michigan’s unemployment rate at 4.5%, with average manufacturing wages up 5% year-over-year, outpacing inflation.

The Governor has pursued several initiatives to fuel this growth, including $21.3 billion in clean energy and battery projects, a $500 million Make it in Michigan Fund, and a new Innovation Fund to foster local businesses. These efforts have contributed to Michigan’s leadership in the auto and clean energy sectors, record construction employment, and rapid small business growth, making the state a top performer in job creation and business climate.