Democrat Haley Stevens Breaks with Party and Backs Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan Senate Race
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In a stunning and deeply demoralizing move for Democrats, Michigan Democrat Haley Stevens endorsed Republican Mike Rogers, widening a party rift just days before the election. The endorsement follows escalating tensions with her former primary opponent, Abdul El-Sayed.
In a striking and politically explosive shift, Michigan Democrat Haley Stevens has endorsed Republican Mike Rogers for the U.S. Senate, a decision that has sent party officials into disarray just days before the election. Stevens made the announcement after attending a church service with Rogers, saying that El-Sayed had made her feel unwelcome in his campaign. "Our Democratic nominee for Senate said I was no longer welcome in his campaign and that I should stay away," she said in a video. "And he's right. And that's why I am endorsing Mike Rogers for the United States Senate today."
El-Sayed, who narrowly defeated Stevens in the August primary, brushed off the endorsement and tried to pivot back to issues that matter to voters, including the crushing high cost of living. "At the end of the day I actually don't think about Haley Stevens," he remarked. The endorsement has stunned Michigan Democratic leaders, who had been trying to hold the party together ahead of the election.
The split between Stevens and El-Sayed has been defined by sharp ideological divisions, especially over U.S. support for Israel. Stevens, a firm supporter of Israel, has drawn backlash for her endorsement, with many party members voicing frustration and disappointment. State party chair Curtis Hertel condemned Stevens, arguing that her move weakens the party's unity and momentum at a critical moment.
As the election approaches, early voting has already seen more than 1.8 million ballots cast in Michigan. The race is vital for Democrats, who are trying to preserve control of the Senate during President Trump's second term. Stevens' endorsement of Rogers, who is backed by Trump, has raised alarm about the possible effect on turnout among key Democratic voters in the state.