LANSING, Mich. – Former Michigan Representative Mike Rogers, a Republican, has announced his candidacy for the Senate, marking a significant entry into what is expected to be one of the most closely watched races of the 2026 midterm elections. With Senator Gary Peters opting not to seek re-election, the impending vacancy of his seat has raised the stakes for both Democrats and Republicans in their efforts to secure a majority in the Senate.
Rogers, who previously lost to Democrat Elissa Slotkin by a narrow margin in the last election, is positioning himself as a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump. In a video released to announce his campaign, Rogers emphasized his commitment to representing the state of Michigan and supporting the policies of Trump. While it remains uncertain whether Rogers will secure Trump’s endorsement this time around, he has already garnered support from key figures within the Republican Party, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune and National Republican Senatorial Committee Chairman Tim Scott.
The Republican primary in Michigan is expected to be fiercely contested, with other notable figures within the party considering entering the race. Tudor Dixon, the GOP’s nominee for governor in 2022, is contemplating a potential Senate campaign, while Republican Representative Bill Huizenga has also expressed interest in running. On the Democratic side, State Senator Mallory McMorrow has already declared her candidacy, with Representative Haley Stevens weighing a potential Senate run. Additionally, Abdul El-Sayed, who recently resigned as the Wayne County health director, is deliberating a bid for the Senate.
Rogers, a former FBI agent who previously chaired the House Intelligence Committee, brings a wealth of experience to his Senate bid. First elected to the House in 2000 and subsequently serving in the state Senate, Rogers has a background in national security and intelligence issues. His decision to re-enter the political arena signals a new chapter in Michigan’s political landscape, setting the stage for a closely watched and highly competitive Senate race in 2026.
