Pete Buttigieg’s decision to not pursue a Senate seat or run for Governor of Michigan in 2026 is a political misstep that could have long-term consequences for his career. There’s no question that Buttigieg is a bright and ambitious figure with undeniable potential. He has demonstrated sharp intellect and a knack for public service, most recently as U.S. Secretary of Transportation. This role involved managing a major federal department and implementing key infrastructure policies. However, in forgoing the opportunity to enter one of Michigan’s most competitive political races, Buttigieg has missed an invaluable chance to gain critical experience in leadership roles that would bolster his credentials for higher office.
At first glance, it may seem that Buttigieg’s decision to sit out these races is a tactical move designed to keep his sights fixed on a potential 2028 presidential run. In some ways, this may indeed be part of the calculation. By avoiding a tough and bruising battle for the Senate or governorship in Michigan, Buttigieg might have spared himself the political fallout that could come from an unsuccessful bid. After all, running for office can be a high-risk endeavor, and a loss could damage a politician’s long-term ambitions. But there’s a fundamental flaw in this thinking. The very nature of these positions, especially in a state like Michigan, would have offered Buttigieg the chance to demonstrate an essential quality that presidential candidates are expected to possess: experience in governance.
Michigan, after all, is a swing state that plays a pivotal role in national politics. The 2026 Senate race, in particular, promises to be one of the most contested in the country. With Democratic Senator Gary Peters vacating the seat, Republicans are eager to flip it, and several well-established Democratic figures, Representatives Haley Stevens and Kristen McDonald Rivet and State Senator Mallory McMorrow, to name a few, are likely to vie for the position. These candidates have long-standing relationships within the state’s political network and the kind of local experience that Buttigieg lacks. By not throwing his hat into the ring, Buttigieg has given up the opportunity to engage in a competitive race that could have sharpened his political skills and allowed him to gain direct legislative experience. Had he taken on this challenge, he would have positioned himself as a viable contender for the national stage, equipped with the kind of experience voters respect.
Additionally, running for Governor in Michigan would have allowed Buttigieg to gain crucial executive experience. While his tenure as Secretary of Transportation did require significant leadership, it’s not the same as managing the day-to-day operations of a state. Governors must make tough decisions about budgeting, legislation, and local policy; they are directly responsible for the welfare of their citizens in ways that a cabinet member isn’t. The experience gained in the executive branch of state government is invaluable for any politician aspiring to hold the highest office in the land. Buttigieg’s decision to forgo that opportunity suggests a reluctance to embrace the messy, hands-on leadership that shapes effective governance.
Being Governor would have also given Butigieg a better title with which to launch a campaign. Mayor Pete may have been charming in 2020, allowing him to campaign as an outsider, but people also like to see progression. In choosing to remain out of the race, Pete's highest elected office for 2028 will still be the mayor of North Bend, Indiana. While Buttigieg did serve as Secretary of Transportation and was a visible cabinet secretary, it is not the same as holding elected public office. While necessary, the Secretary of Transportation role is not considered a highly regarded position when considering presidential candidates due to its narrower focus on transportation issues and lack of broad executive powers. The reality is that Buttigieg is not in the same position as other Biden administration alumni for 2028 if he chooses to do nothing. Gina Raimondo, Biden's Secretary of Commerce, who has also announced her interest in running in 2028, was a former Governor of Rhode Island, giving her enough experience to fall back on. Experience Pete lacks. Harris, who was Vice President, enjoys the fortune of having a much loftier former title that will hold her over to 2028. A luxury Pete does not possess. Ultimately, Buttigieg himself may be presidential timber, but without higher office, he lacks the resume.
It’s important to remember that high-profile but somewhat limited roles have thus far marked Buttigieg’s political career. As the former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, he was thrust into the public eye, and his time as Secretary of Transportation showcased his ability to manage a major federal department. However, both roles, though important, do not provide the same level of practical experience that a Senate or gubernatorial position would offer. Even in mid-sized cities, mayors are far removed from the broad legislative and executive powers wielded by state governors or U.S. Senators. The responsibilities are different, as are the stakes. A loss in a Michigan Senate race would undoubtedly have been a setback. Still, it could have also sharpened Buttigieg’s political acumen in a way that a career of executive-level appointments simply cannot. This practical experience is crucial for any political leader, and its absence in Buttigieg's career is a significant point to consider.
The problem with Buttigieg’s strategy is that it risks creating a disconnect between his ambition and his experience. In the modern political climate, voters expect presidential candidates to have a proven record of effective leadership. While Buttigieg has impressed many with his intellect, communications skills, and ability to navigate complex political terrain, many still see him as lacking the hands-on experience that comes with holding an executive or legislative position. The 2028 presidential race will surely be a contest of candidates with varied political backgrounds. Buttigieg will face fierce competition from others who have built their careers in the trenches of state and national politics. Without the benefit of a Senate or gubernatorial run, Buttigieg may struggle to convince voters that he has the executive experience necessary to lead the country.
The reality is that the presidency requires more than just rhetorical flair and policy knowledge. It demands an ability to manage complex institutions, build consensus, and execute a vision on a national scale. By passing on Michigan’s Senate race and the governorship, Buttigieg has missed an opportunity to develop those crucial skills in state-level governance. And while his decision might make sense in the short term, it could ultimately backfire, leaving him without the political credentials that would make him a strong contender in 2028.
None of this is to say that Buttigieg lacks potential or that his career is over. Far from it. He has a bright future ahead of him, and his skill set is remarkable. But by not running for Senate or Governor in Michigan, he’s opted to bypass an opportunity that could have helped him develop the kind of hands-on leadership experience that would have been invaluable for his long-term political career. This was a mistake, one that could prove to be more costly than any temporary setback or loss in a competitive race. If Buttigieg truly hopes to be a national leader, he must prove he has the experience to support his ambition. Unfortunately, by sitting out Michigan’s 2026 contests, he’s chosen to delay that opportunity for growth, and in doing so, he may have also delayed his political future. The potential consequences of this decision are concerning, and it's essential to consider them when evaluating Buttigieg's political future.
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