In the dynamic world of Michigan politics, former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is making headlines with his independent bid for governor. Duggan, previously a Democrat, is advocating for a balanced approach to governance, aiming to bridge the gap between the two major parties.
Duggan’s main criticism of the current political landscape focuses on the frequent policy shifts that occur as power changes hands between Democrats and Republicans. He highlighted the inconsistency in state strategies, particularly in education and economic development, as a concern during his recent press conference.
“We have a 50/50 state that’s going to swing back and forth every two years. And Michigan is never going to get out of this permanent U-turn cycle if we don’t find a way to get Republicans and Democrats to establish a Michigan path, and that’s what I’m going to try and do,” Duggan stated to the media.
Since announcing his candidacy, Duggan has been engaging with voters on key issues such as education, housing, and regulatory policies. His campaign strategy involves appealing to both traditional Democrats and Republicans, with a particular focus on progressives who may feel disillusioned with their party’s leadership.
“Right now, you are getting candidates who tell you 100% of what you want to hear and got 0% of what you wanted done. I’m someone who’s going to get 70% of what you want done. But we’re going to work with Republicans on common ground,” Duggan expressed, emphasizing his pragmatic approach.
Despite his efforts to present a centrist platform, Duggan faces criticism from the Michigan Democratic Party. During a press conference, party leaders portrayed him as more conservative than he claims, questioning his allegiance to unions and scrutinizing his fundraising activities.
State Representative Joey Andrews (D-St. Joseph) was vocal in his critique, accusing Duggan of opportunism. “The reality is he’s not an Independent, he’s just a shapeshifter. Duggan is whoever he needs to be with whatever room he’s in,” Andrews commented.
Duggan, likening his political stance to that of former Republican Governor William Milliken, defended his departure from the Democratic Party, citing a need to focus on practical issues rather than partisan rhetoric.
While Duggan has refrained from commenting extensively on national topics, he did voice concerns about tariffs impacting Michigan’s auto industry when questioned. “The Republicans and Democrats with their outrage machines and whatever the latest thing that Trump said, I’m not going to get into that. I’m going to deal with solving problems,” Duggan asserted.
Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel Jr. challenged Duggan’s reluctance to confront Trump’s policies directly, noting the local implications of such policies on tariffs and healthcare.
Polling data indicates an uphill battle for Duggan, currently trailing behind Republican frontrunner Congressman John James and Democratic frontrunner Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson in the race. Further details can be found in the polling results.
—
Read More Michigan News
