DETROIT ~ Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has accepted a private sector role, joining Detroit-based law firm Honigman as a partner in its Government Relations and Public Policy practice group. The announcement comes several months after Duggan ended his independent campaign for Michigan governor and following the conclusion of his 12-year tenure as mayor of Detroit.
“What’s happening in the city is so exciting,” Duggan said this morning on 760 WJR’s ‘JR Morning. “I just wanted to be here and enjoy it. If I could get a career and stay in the city, I wanted to do that.”
PODCAST:
Aug. 17, 2026 ~ From City Hall to a downtown law firm, Mike Duggan discusses his return to practicing law, the opportunities that drew him to Honigman, and the Detroit comeback story he says is far from finished.
(CONTINUED) Honigman said Duggan will serve as a strategic adviser to the firm and its clients, providing guidance on matters including economic development, government relations, crisis response, infrastructure projects, and complex community and public policy issues. The firm said his experience leading major public-sector initiatives and managing large organizations will support clients navigating regulatory and business challenges.
Duggan served three terms as Detroit mayor from 2014 through 2025, making him the city’s second-longest-serving mayor. Before entering elected office, he was chief executive officer of the Detroit Medical Center and previously served as Wayne County prosecutor and deputy county executive. During his mayoral tenure, he was closely associated with Detroit’s revitalization efforts, including development projects, neighborhood investments, and initiatives aimed at improving city services.
Duggan said he and his wife, Dr. Sonia Hassan, wanted to remain in Detroit and continue contributing to the city. He said the position will allow him to focus on solving complex problems and helping organizations move forward. Honigman, which has been headquartered in Detroit for more than 75 years, operates offices across Michigan and several major U.S. markets.
