The governor's race in a swing state receives a curveball with a top Democrat running independent, prompting speculation about Joe Buttigieg's involvement.

With Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's term coming to an end, a prominent Democrat has launched an independent campaign, prompting the party to look for a new standard-bearer in Michigan.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, who was believed to be a strong contender for the governor's office, shocked the state's political community by announcing he would run as an independent.

In his campaign launch video, Duggan stated that he went to Lansing and established connections with Democrats and Republicans. We revitalized our neighborhoods by replacing burned-out streetlights with new ones, resulting in a brighter city that met the national standard. As a result, Detroit's unemployment rate was reduced to its lowest level in more than 30 years.

"Can I modify the current system to allow for finding solutions without forcing people to choose sides?"

He struck a similar tone in recent remarks to reporters:

In his final year as mayor, Duggan expressed his desire to establish a working relationship with the Trump administration, citing his successful collaboration with fellow Motor City native HUD Secretary Ben Carson the previous term.

He stated to The Associated Press that he believes many Americans are disillusioned with both political parties and the system, and as a result, he aims to provide voters with an alternative option.

Democrats reportedly shifted their focus to an Indiana native who recently relocated to his husband's home state.

Instead of asking about the Colts, a man at an event with Detroit autoworkers questioned the Lions, which the AP depicted as a potential obstacle for Pete Buttigieg to connect with Michiganders if he chooses to run.

At the event, another man commended Buttigieg for being one of the few politicians who speaks to both liberal and conservative media audiences.

Buttigieg has stated that he will not make any official political decisions regarding his usefulness until after President Biden leaves office, but has received contact from several Michigan Democrats regarding a potential run for office.

Jocelyn Benson, Michigan Secretary of State and a potential Democratic contender, responded to Duggan's announcement with derision.

Benson stated to FOX-2 that in such instances, instead of leaving the gathering, she stays and resolves the issue. It was reported that she is contemplating running for office.

In the Great Lakes State, a Democratic strategist, Andrew Feldman, stated that people are "shocked and angry" at Duggan for not identifying as a Democrat.

According to him, many people consider this a critical issue, as Mike Duggan has the potential to give the governor's mansion to Republicans and reverse decades of advancement.

The Democratic race on the ballot is being contested by several candidates, while the Republican race is still undecided.

Tudor Dixon, the 2022 Republican nominee and conservative media host, stated just before the presidential election that while 26 is always in the back of his mind, their current focus is on 24.

Several individuals, including businessman Perry Johnson, businessman Kevin Rinke, and sitting GOP lawmakers, have been mentioned as potential candidates for governor of Michigan in the press.

The uncertainty in the election was intensified by Michigan's 2024 split results, where voters chose both Republican President-elect Trump and Democratic Sen.-elect Elissa Slotkin from the top-tier races.

The Michigan GOP, Democrats, and Buttigieg's office were contacted by Planet Chronicle Digital for comment.