Mike Duggan Joins Honigman as Partner

(Source: MIRS.news, Published 08/14/2026) Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, nearly three months after ending his independent run for governor, has joined the Honigman law firm as a partner in the law firm’s Government Relations and Public Policy practice group, the Detroit-based firm announced.

Duggan's job description has him conducting duties that would not require him to register as a lobbyist on day one, and Honigman Partner Peter Ruddell, the lead of the Government Relations and Public Policy practice group, said the firm doesn't anticipate that changing.

Honigman officials approached Duggan with the opportunity immediately after he announced he was ending his gubernatorial campaign. They asked that he take his time, but when he was ready to talk he could call.

Duggan, a member of the State Bar, joins Honigman after serving three terms as mayor, making him the second-longest-serving mayor in Detroit’s history. During his time in office, he focused on issues including public safety, blight, transportation, health care and access to jobs.

In his new role, Duggan will serve as a strategic adviser to the firm and its clients, drawing on his experience in government, public policy, health care, law enforcement and economic development. Honigman said Duggan will advise on matters involving alternative dispute resolution, internal and external investigations, infrastructure and economic development projects, public-sector approvals, crisis response, sensitive matters, and political and community relations issues.

“As a transformative public servant and proven leader, Mike will bring extraordinary value to our firm and our clients,” Honigman Chairman and CEO David Foltyn said in a statement. “Throughout his career, Mike has demonstrated a remarkable ability to solve complex problems, lead large organizations, build consensus among diverse stakeholders, and drive meaningful economic growth.”

Before becoming mayor, Duggan served as CEO of Detroit Medical Center for eight years, where he led a financial turnaround and helped negotiate an agreement that supported major new construction investment. He also previously served as Wayne County prosecutor and deputy Wayne County executive.

Foltyn said Duggan’s background aligns with the needs of businesses operating at the intersection of law, government, regulation, public policy and economic development.

“Mike’s judgment, relationships, and strategic insight will enhance our ability to help clients navigate complex matters, conduct sensitive investigations, manage difficult stakeholder issues, and capitalize on emerging opportunities,” Foltyn said.

The University of Michigan alum said he wanted to remain in Detroit and continue contributing to the city after leaving public office.

“After years spent working to build the City of Detroit, I knew I wanted to stay and enjoy the city while finding a way to contribute,” Duggan said. “Honigman is an outstanding law firm that’s been headquartered in Detroit for more than 75 years. I’ve always admired the way their talented attorneys and professionals help their clients solve even the most complex challenges.”

Duggan added that he looks forward to helping support the growth of “another storied Detroit institution.”

Honigman is a full-service law firm with more than 400 attorneys advising clients on business, litigation, regulatory and transactional matters across the United States. The firm has offices in Detroit and other Michigan locations, Chicago, Washington, D.C., and Israel.