News Summary

Republican Representative Bill Huizenga has announced he will not run for the U.S. Senate in Michigan, effectively paving the way for former Rep. Mike Rogers to enter the Republican primary. Trump’s potential support for Rogers could influence the race as both parties gear up for elections in 2026. With endorsements flowing for Rogers and several Democratic candidates entering the fray, the political landscape in Michigan is set to be competitive.

Grand Rapids, Michigan — Republican Representative Bill Huizenga announced his decision not to run for the U.S. Senate seat in Michigan, a move that is likely to clear the path for former Rep. Mike Rogers in the upcoming Republican primary. Huizenga made this announcement on social media platform X, explaining that he arrived at this decision after multiple discussions with his family and a conversation with former President Donald Trump.

Huizenga expressed gratitude towards the Michiganders who supported him and hinted at revealing his future plans later this year. Trump’s involvement in the Senate race has raised questions about potential endorsements; while Trump has not officially backed any candidate, he is anticipated to show support for Rogers, who narrowly lost to Democrat Elissa Slotkin in the last Senate election.

Rogers’ prospects in the race have received additional boosts from various endorsements, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune and National Republican Senatorial Committee Chairman Tim Scott publicly backing him after Huizenga’s announcement. These endorsements add significant weight to Rogers’ campaign, emphasizing his commitment to securing the Senate seat for Michigan.

Furthermore, Alex Latcham from the Senate Leadership Fund expressed optimism about Rogers becoming the next U.S. Senator from Michigan, citing his qualifications and local support. The upcoming Senate seat is particularly significant because it became open following the announcement of Democratic Senator Gary Peters’ retirement. This development creates a crucial opportunity for Republicans to expand their Senate majority in the 2026 elections.

In response to the political landscape, Rogers has pledged that his campaign will focus on key issues such as economic development and veterans’ support. His strategy involves addressing local concerns and reinforcing the narrative of a united Republican front in Michigan.

The Democratic primary is also shaping up to be competitive with notable candidates like Rep. Haley Stevens, state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, former Wayne County Health Director Abdul El-Sayed, and former state House Speaker Joe Tate seeking the nomination. This diversity among candidates suggests a lively contest on the Democratic side in response to the vacancy created by Peters’ retirement.

Moreover, other Republican figures, including Reps. Mike Lawler and Zach Nunn, have chosen to pursue re-election in the House rather than enter the Senate race, following encouragement from Trump. Trump has publicly praised Nunn as a “team player,” indicating his strategy to bolster Republican presence in diverse races.

Rogers’ recent endorsement from Trump was seen as a significant factor strengthening his position as the presumptive Republican nominee. Rogers has acknowledged this support and expressed his determination to implement changes that would benefit both Michigan residents and Americans as a whole. The GOP has not won a Senate election in Michigan since 1994, making this race a pivotal one in both state and national contexts.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, both Republican and Democratic candidates are gearing up for a competitive election cycle in Michigan. As voters prepare to head to the polls, the implications of Huizenga’s decision and Rogers’ subsequent candidacy will likely shape the discourse around pivotal issues facing the state and the nation.