Capitol News

Mike Duggan is set to attend a fundraiser hosted by Jeff Sakwa, former co-chair of the Michigan Republican Party. The event marks another effort by Duggan to attract support from Republican donors.

Jeff Sakwa previously served as co-chair of the Michigan GOP alongside Ronna Romney McDaniel, who later became chair of the Republican National Committee. Sakwa has stated that there are a “ton of Republicans” backing Duggan and expressed his desire for “Republicans to win the House and the Senate” along with Duggan.

Last month, Duggan participated in a fundraiser organized by Anthony Soave, a major donor to Donald Trump’s campaign and someone involved in a city towing controversy with Duggan. In response, the Michigan Democratic Party launched billboards in Detroit highlighting what they describe as “MAGA Money’s Mike Duggan,” aiming to inform voters about Duggan’s financial supporters.

Michigan Democratic Party spokesperson Derrick Honeyman commented on Duggan’s actions: “It’s a day ending in Y, which means Mike Duggan is groveling for the support of MAGA donors as Donald Trump continues to hurt Michiganders. Duggan loves MAGA money, and he’s even defended Donald Trump’s cuts to Medicaid and said that as Mayor, he had no problems with the Trump administration. While he cozies up to Jeff Sakwa and Republicans who want to drive Michigan backwards, it’s clear that Mike Duggan can’t be trusted to stand up for families across the state who are struggling to make ends meet.”

An analysis by Metro Times found that much of Duggan's fundraising comes from individuals connected with President Donald Trump, GOP leaders, and conservative figures with interests in state policy. Among those supporting his campaign financially are Ron Weiser—former chair of the Michigan Republican Party—and members of his family; JC Huizenga—a charter school advocate; Peter and Danialle Karmanos—who have contributed significant amounts both nationally and within Michigan; members of the Nicholson family—major donors to state Republicans; Rich Baird—a former Snyder administration official charged over Flint Water crisis; David Schostak—a prominent GOP donor; and Nick Khouri—the former State Treasurer under Rick Snyder.

Since starting his campaign, reports indicate that Duggan has shifted his rhetoric against Democrats while accepting substantial donations from leading figures within the Republican party. According to Heartland Signal reporting, more than $200,000 of contributions received by Duggan came from individuals who also supported one or more Republican candidates in ongoing races.