Democrat Senator Stabenow says not seeking 2024 reelection, opening up battleground state seat

Stabenow, chair of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee, had not indicated that she did not plan on running in 2024.

Published: January 5, 2023 9:42am

Updated: January 5, 2023 10:03am

Michigan Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow announced Thursday that she will not seek reelection in 2024 after serving four terms in Congress.

"Inspired by a new generation of leaders, I have decided to pass the torch in the U.S. Senate," Stabenow, chairwoman of the Senate Democratic Policy Committee, said in a statement.

Stabenow, who was elected to the House in 1996 and the Senate in 2000, pledged to continue working for Michiganders during the next two years.

"When my term ends, I intend to begin a new chapter in my life that includes continuing to serve our State outside of elected office while spending precious time with my amazing 96-year-old mom and my wonderful family," she said.

Although Michigan certified President Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 election, former President Donald Trump won the 2016 election in the battleground state. This leaves open the possibility that Michigan could elect a Republican to the Senate in 2024.