Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan announced he won't seek reelection in 2026, creating a competitive Senate seat at a challenging time for Democrats. Expected candidates include Pete Buttigieg and several state officials, as Michigan's political landscape faces crosswinds with a concurrent gubernatorial race. Peters, who has represented Michigan since 2015, emphasized the importance of passing the reins to the next generation as he concludes his service. The upcoming elections- both gubernatorial and for the Senate- will significantly impact party dynamics and strategies leading into 2026.