Michigan state Senator Mallory McMorrow has officially launched her campaign for the 2026 U.S. Senate race, aiming to succeed retiring Democrat Gary Peters. Her announcement, made through a compelling video, marks the beginning of what could be one of the most high-profile Senate races in the country.
A New Voice Against the Old Guard
In her launch video, McMorrow delivers a powerful message: the old way of doing politics is broken, and it’s time for bold, authentic leadership. “They want to make you feel powerless, but you are not powerless,” she says, referencing her political rise since unseating a Republican incumbent in 2018.
The video combines urgent national headlines with references to figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk. McMorrow critiques the status quo in Washington, declaring, “The same old crap out of Washington won’t fix this.”
Her campaign embraces a generational shift. As a millennial, McMorrow argues that Democrats must go beyond anti-Trump rhetoric and focus on bold action. Her slogan, “The New American Dream,” offers a progressive alternative to Trump’s “Make America Great Again.”
National Recognition and a Viral Legacy
McMorrow gained national attention in 2022 after a viral speech defending LGBTQ+ rights. In that speech, she identified as a “straight, white, Christian, married, suburban mom” who believes every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported.
This speech remains central to her campaign identity, underscoring Democratic values of fairness, opportunity, and representation.
Facing Tough Competition
McMorrow is the first major Democrat to enter the race, but others are expected to follow. Potential Democratic contenders include Reps. Kristen McDonald Rivet and Haley Stevens, and Attorney General Dana Nessel. On the Republican side, former Rep. Mike Rogers, who narrowly lost the 2024 Senate race, may run again.
This sets the stage for a competitive primary and general election against seasoned federal-level politicians.
Challenging the Democratic Establishment
McMorrow is calling for reform within the Democratic Party itself. She expressed frustration with current leadership and emphasized the need for fresh ideas and younger voices.
She has publicly stated she would not support re-electing Sen. Chuck Schumer as Democratic leader and has previously urged President Biden not to seek re-election.
“I’m not from Washington,” McMorrow said. “And that’s a good thing.”
Navigating Controversial Topics with Clarity
McMorrow addressed hot-button issues like transgender rights and women’s sports with nuance. She believes that sports governing bodies—not politicians—should set participation rules, warning against intrusive measures like gender exams.
She also critiqued progressive messaging that feels disconnected from everyday voters. Terms like “birthing persons,” she argues, can alienate the public. McMorrow champions clear, inclusive language that resonates broadly.
A Campaign Rooted in Action
Alongside her Senate run, McMorrow recently released a new book—part memoir, part political playbook—positioning herself as a next-generation leader focused on delivering real change.
Her campaign emphasizes issues like healthcare, education, and reproductive rights. “We need leaders who not only promise change but actually deliver it,” she said. “We need to win on our terms.”
