Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan ends his independent campaign for Michigan governor, withdrawing from the race about six months before the election. Duggan made the announcement on Thursday, saying his decision reflects challenges faced by third-party candidates, including being outspent relative to other contenders and broader political headwinds. NBC News reports that he cites national conditions that are boosting Democrats, and he says that without being in polls and behind in fundraising, he sees no viable path to win. The Hill similarly reports that Duggan points to fundraising and spending disadvantages, saying he had been “outspent” by other candidates. Fox News describes the move as a surprise that reshapes the contest to replace term-limited Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, with Duggan’s exit changing the dynamics of the gubernatorial field. Across outlets, Duggan’s withdrawal is presented as a late-stage decision driven by campaign resources and the national political environment, with his departure leaving voters with fewer options in the final stretch of the race.