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Former U.S. Attorney Exits Race for Michigan Attorney General
Mark Totten suspends his campaign, leaving three remaining Democratic candidates
Jan. 28, 2026 at 6:15am
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Former U.S. Attorney Mark Totten has suspended his bid to become the Democratic Party's nominee for Michigan attorney general in 2026. His exit leaves Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit, Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald, and public defender William Noakes as the remaining candidates in the race.
Why it matters
The Michigan attorney general race is a closely watched contest, as the winner will play a key role in shaping the state's legal and policy agenda for the next four years. Totten's withdrawal narrows the field and shifts the dynamics of the primary race.
The details
Totten cited not seeing a viable path to win the nomination as the reason for his exit from the race. The Democratic nomination will be awarded at a spring endorsement convention. Karen McDonald has received the endorsement of the United Auto Workers and the Michigan Education Association, two influential labor groups in the state.
- Totten announced his suspension of the campaign on January 28, 2026.
The players
Mark Totten
Former U.S. Attorney who was running for the Democratic nomination for Michigan attorney general.
Eli Savit
Washtenaw County Prosecutor, one of the remaining Democratic candidates for Michigan attorney general.
Karen McDonald
Oakland County Prosecutor, one of the remaining Democratic candidates for Michigan attorney general who has received key endorsements.
William Noakes
Public defender, one of the remaining Democratic candidates for Michigan attorney general.
What they’re saying
“I did not see a viable path for me to win the nomination, which will be awarded at a spring endorsement convention.”
— Mark Totten, Former U.S. Attorney
The takeaway
Totten's withdrawal from the race narrows the field of Democratic candidates for Michigan attorney general, potentially shifting the dynamics of the primary as the remaining contenders vie for the party's nomination ahead of the general election.
