Michigan’s first woman senator, champion for working families, auto industry, fundamental rights will not seek re-election in 2024 

LANSING, MI — Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist released the following statements after Senator Debbie Stabenow announced her decision not to seek re-election in 2024. 

Governor Whitmer 

“Senator Stabenow is a champion for Michigan.  

As the first woman elected to represent Michigan in the U.S. Senate, she’s been leading the fight for working families, the auto industry, and farmers for a lifetime in Michigan and for Michigan in Washington, DC. She continues to stand up for workers’ rights and expand paths to good-paying jobs in the trades, bring manufacturing and supply chains home to Michigan, and work across the aisle as Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee to deliver record, bipartisan farm bills. 

She is a fierce protector of our Great Lakes, fought for decades to modernize the Soo Locks, and continues to tackle toxic contaminants in drinking water. She’s also a leader in expanding access to affordable health care and ensuring parity for mental health services. 

Most of all, she is an incredible friend. Debbie is one-of-one. As governor of this great state for the next four years, I look forward to working with her through the end of her term and beyond in however she serves our state next.” 

Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist 

“Senator Debbie Stabenow has built an incredible legacy as a trailblazer, history-maker, champion for Michigan, and friend. In her advocacy on mental health, making Michigan the best place to make and grow things, and protecting our natural resources, she has done so much to build a state we can be proud to pass on to our kids. I am grateful for Senator Stabenow’s friendship and leadership. Let’s build on her legacy and continue working together to make a difference for Michiganders in every community.”