Biography

Gary Charles Peters, born on December 1, 1958, in Pontiac, Michigan, is a Democratic politician serving as the senior United States Senator from Michigan since 2015. A fifth-generation Michigander, Peters has dedicated his career to public service, emphasizing economic growth, environmental protection, and national security. Before his tenure in the Senate, he represented Michigan's 9th and 14th congressional districts in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2009 to 2015. Peters has announced that he will not seek re-election in 2026.

Education and Political Experience

• Education:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Alma College
  • Master of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Detroit Mercy
  • Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School
  • Master of Arts in Political Science from Wayne State University
  • Master of Arts in Philosophy from Michigan State University

• Political Experience:

  • Rochester Hills City Councilman
  • Michigan State Senator for the 14th District
  • U.S. Representative for Michigan's 9th and 14th Congressional Districts
  • U.S. Senator from Michigan
  • Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee
  • Chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee

Notable Achievements

• Legislative Effectiveness: Recognized as one of the most effective and bipartisan senators, Peters authored and passed 15 standalone bills into law during the 118th Congress .

• Great Lakes Protection: As a staunch advocate for the Great Lakes, Peters secured increased funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and was named Legislator of the Year by the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force in 2021.

• Infrastructure and Technology: Peters has been instrumental in promoting legislation for self-driving cars, drone regulations, and restrictions on Chinese vehicles, reflecting his commitment to advancing technology and infrastructure.

• Military Service: Serving over a decade in the U.S. Navy Reserve, Peters achieved the rank of Lieutenant Commander and earned the Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation.

Throughout his career, Senator Peters has focused on uniting communities by advocating for a stronger economy, good-paying jobs, affordable health care, and environmental sustainability.