Detroit lawmaker Joe Tate joins Michigans crowded 2026 U.S. Senate race

Published: Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 4:33 pm

Detroit Lawmaker Joe Tate Jumps into Crowded 2026 Michigan Senate Race

Detroit State Representative Joe Tate has officially thrown his hat into the ring for Michigan's open U.S. Senate seat in 2026. The former House Speaker announced his candidacy on Sunday, citing a desire to continue the legacy of his grandparents, who migrated to Detroit from Alabama during the Great Migration.

Tate's entry adds another name to an already competitive Democratic field. He joins former gubernatorial candidate Abdul El-Sayed, State Senator Mallory McMorrow, and U.S. Representative Haley Stevens in the race. The seat is currently held by Senator Gary Peters, who has announced he will not seek reelection.

Before entering politics, Tate had a diverse background, including a two-year stint as an offensive lineman in the NFL and service in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was first elected to the Michigan House in 2018 and made history in 2022 when he became the first Black person to serve as House Speaker. During his tenure, Democrats, holding a trifecta of power, passed significant legislation, including gun control reforms, free school meals, and the repeal of the state's right-to-work law. However, his leadership ended in a chaotic fashion after Republicans regained control of the House in the 2024 elections, leading to legislative gridlock.

On the Republican side, former U.S. Representative Mike Rogers has declared his candidacy. Other potential Republican contenders include U.S. Representative Bill Huizenga and former gubernatorial candidate Tudor Dixon. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, a Democrat, has not ruled out a run.

BNN's Perspective: The 2026 Senate race in Michigan is shaping up to be a fascinating contest. Tate's background and experience, particularly his time as House Speaker, give him a strong foundation. However, the challenges he faced at the end of his tenure, coupled with the crowded field, will make it a tough battle. The race will likely hinge on the candidates' ability to connect with voters across the state and articulate a clear vision for Michigan's future.

Keywords: Joe Tate, Michigan Senate, 2026 election, U.S. Senate race, Detroit, Gary Peters, Abdul El-Sayed, Mallory McMorrow, Haley Stevens, Mike Rogers, Michigan politics, Great Migration, House Speaker, Democratic Party, Republican Party, Dana Nessel, Bill Huizenga, Tudor Dixon, Michigan House of Representatives, gun control, right to work, NFL, Marine Corps.

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