Michigan Gubernatorial Candidate Duggan Walks Back Fabricated Union Endorsements

Independent candidate's social media post claiming 15 labor unions endorsed him was false, unions confirm.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An independent gubernatorial candidate in Michigan, Mike Duggan, has retracted a social media post that appeared to fabricate endorsements from several major labor unions, including the United Auto Workers, Teamsters, and Service Employees International Union. The unions have confirmed they have not endorsed Duggan, who is running as an independent after previously being a Democrat.

Why it matters

Duggan's attempt to falsely claim union endorsements raises questions about his credibility and transparency as a candidate. As an independent running against the Democratic and Republican nominees, any perception of dishonesty could undermine his appeal to working-class voters, a key constituency in the Michigan governor's race.

The details

According to The Detroit News, Duggan's X account (formerly known as Twitter) listed endorsements from UAW Local 412, Teamsters, Operating Engineers, and SEIU, claiming '15 labor unions didn't endorse me to help one party or the other. They endorsed me because I deliver for working people.' However, UAW and SEIU both confirmed they have not made any endorsements yet, eight months before the general election. Additionally, Operating Engineers Local 324 has endorsed a different candidate, Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson, in the Democratic primary.

  • On Monday, Duggan's post claiming the union endorsements was deleted.
  • Campaign spokeswoman Andrea Bitely told The Detroit News the post was made in error.

The players

Mike Duggan

An independent candidate for governor of Michigan, who previously served as the mayor of Detroit.

Andrea Bitely

Spokeswoman for Mike Duggan's gubernatorial campaign.

Chris Swanson

Genesee County sheriff running in the Democratic primary for Michigan governor.

United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 412

A local chapter of the United Auto Workers labor union.

Teamsters

A labor union representing workers in the transportation and logistics industries.

Operating Engineers Local 324

A local chapter of the International Union of Operating Engineers, a labor union representing construction workers.

Service Employees International Union (SEIU)

A labor union representing workers in the healthcare, public sector, and property services industries.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“They endorsed me because I deliver for working people.”

— Mike Duggan (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.