Michigan State Sen. Mallory McMorrow, a rising progressive voice in the Democratic Party, formally announced her candidacy Wednesday for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat in 2026, vowing to bring “new leadership” to a nation she described as mired in fear and dysfunction.
In a campaign launch video, McMorrow criticized the current political establishment in Washington and said Michigan — and the nation — “can’t wait” for the change it needs.
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“The same people in D.C. who got us into this mess are not going to be the ones to get us out of it,” McMorrow said. “We need new leaders. I’m running for U.S. Senate because we don’t have a minute to wait.”
McMorrow, 37, becomes the first candidate to officially enter the race to replace retiring Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI), setting the stage for what is expected to be one of the most competitive Senate races of the 2026 election cycle.
McMorrow gained national attention in 2022 for a viral floor speech denouncing culture war attacks on LGBTQ+ rights and has since carved out a reputation as a bold progressive unafraid to challenge her own party’s leadership.
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In recent months, she publicly called on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to resign after he backed a controversial GOP-led spending bill supported by President Donald Trump — a move that triggered widespread discontent within Democratic ranks.
Politico has described McMorrow as a “rising star” in the party, and she has remained outspoken on issues including abortion rights, gun reform, and environmental protections.
McMorrow’s early entry into the race could give her a head start in what is likely to become a crowded Democratic primary. Other potential contenders include Democratic U.S. Reps. Haley Stevens and Kristen McDonald Rivet, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, and progressive physician and former gubernatorial candidate Abdul El-Sayed.
Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, once considered a top contender for the seat, announced last month that he would not run, fueling speculation about a potential 2028 presidential bid.
McMorrow’s announcement comes at a turbulent time for Democrats nationally. The party has struggled to regain momentum following former President Donald Trump’s reelection in 2024, as well as the GOP’s return to control of both chambers of Congress. Approval ratings for Democratic leaders have continued to slip amid internal fractures over messaging and strategy.
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Despite the headwinds, McMorrow’s candidacy is expected to energize progressive Democrats in Michigan and beyond, particularly younger voters seeking new voices in Washington.
With the political stakes high and the field still taking shape, Michigan’s 2026 Senate race is poised to be a key battleground in determining the balance of power in the next Congress.
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