Debbie Stabenow, Michigan’s First Female U.S. Senator, Will Not Run For Re-Election

Debbie Stabenow, Michigan's first-ever female U.S. senator, has announced that she will not be running for re-election at the conclusion of her current term.

Debbie Stabenow's Political Career

Stabenow, 72, has been a part of Michigan politics for years. In 1997, she became a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Michigan's eighth district. She served in that role until 2001.

Stabenow was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2000, defeating Republican incumbent Spencer Abraham. She was re-elected to that position in 2006, 2012, and 2018.

Debbie Stabenow's Road to the U.S. Senate

Debbie Stabenow is a Michigan native - born in Gladwin, Mich. and growing up in Clare, Mich. She attended Michigan State University where she earned both a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master's Degree in Social Work.

Why is Debbie Stabenow Stepping Away From Politics?

In a statement, Stabenow stated that she has been "inspired by a new generation of leaders" and that that played a part in her decision.

When her term ends, she says she intends 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.

You can read Senator Stabenow's full statement on her website.

Which Committees Has Debbie Stabenow Served On?

During her time in the U.S. Senate, Debbie Stabenow has served on

• the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry
• the Committee on the Budget
• the Committee on Energy and National Resources
• and the Committee on Finance

Who Will Replace Debbie Stabenow in the U.S. Senate?

Rumors and speculation are already swirling about who will replace Stabenow after she leaves office. Some of the Democratic names being thrown around include current Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow, and current Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist.

In a statement released by Governor Whitmer's office yesterday, she seemed to squash the rumors of her running for the seat, saying,

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...

Republican names being mentioned include John James, Peter Meijer, and John Gibbs.

Former U.S. Representative Justin Amash, who left the Republican Party in 2019 and declared himself a Libertarian, has also been mentioned.