LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Democrat Pete Buttigieg will not run for political office in Michigan, the former U.S. Secretary of Transportation posted Thursday on his X account.

“I care deeply about who Michigan will elect as Governor and send to the U.S. Senate next year, but I have decided against competing in either race,” Buttigieg stated. “I remain enthusiastic about helping candidates who share our values – and who understand that in this moment, leadership means not only opposing today’s cruel chaos, but also presenting a vision of a better alternative.”

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Politico reported that Buttigieg declined to run for office in Michigan because he was considering a presidential run in 2028. Buttigieg ran for president in 2020 but eventually dropped out in March 2020 and endorsed Joe Biden.

Buttigieg’s X account lists his home as Traverse City. He was the mayor of South Bend, Indiana, from 2012 to 2020 and was nicknamed “Mayor Pete.” Buttigieg said he bought his home in Traverse City five years ago.

“I thought seriously about both, especially after being encouraged by some of the leaders in Michigan whom I most respect, as well as by people I’ve encountered when I’m picking up groceries, catching a flight, or at the mall with my family,” Buttigieg wrote on his Substack account. “My party has a deep and talented bench here in Michigan, and I am certain that we will nominate an outstanding candidate for each office. Here in Michigan and around the country, I remain enthusiastic about helping candidates who share our values – and who understand that in this moment, leadership means not only opposing today’s cruel chaos, but also presenting a vision of a better alternative.”