DETROIT – It was no surprise that Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan entered the governor’s race.
But his decision to do so, shedding the Democrat label, is capturing a lot of attention, including among lawmakers in the frenzy of the lame-duck session.
“On the face of it, it seems a like very smart way to go. Why would you wanted to be a huge primary full of candidates,” said Rep. Sharon MacDonell, D-Troy.
“Look how terrible it went for Democrats nationally. Look at a lot of the things that Biden did pardoning his son. I would be running far away from that party if I was Democrat as well. So, I don’t blame him,” said Rep. Joe Aragona, R-Clinton Township.
Zach Gorchow heads Gongwer News Service Michigan and said he was shocked by Duggan’s decision to run as an Independent.
“I fully expected him to run for governor, but he is a lifelong Democrat. He’s been elected to office as a Democrat, and I never thought he would consider this path. I figured he would seek the Democratic nomination,” said Gorchow.
Gorchow said it could hurt the Democratic nominee for governor.
“It’s definitely going to force a real reckoning on the Democratic side because now they’re faced with the prospect of an independent Mike Duggan being on the November ballot along with the Democratic nominee,” Gorchow said.
Democratic Party Chair Lavora Barnes isn’t concerned.
“The potential gubernatorial Democratic primary field is incredibly strong, and we look forward to ensuring Democrats hold onto the governorship and continue building a brighter future for all Michiganders,” said Barnes in a statement.
There has never been a governor of Michigan who hasn’t been affiliated with a political party.
Can you guess the party?
The Whig Party and Democratic Party were the major parties at the time.
The Whig Party in Michigan was led by Wiliam Woodbridge, who became Michigan’s second governor, serving from 1840-1841.
Woodbridge resigned and was replaced by Lt. Governor James Wright Gordon, who was a member of the Whig Party.