Michigan Congresswoman Backstabs Democrats by Endorsing Republican as Election Looms
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Haley Stevens, a Michigan Democrat and former Senate primary rival of Abdul-El-Sayed, has thrown her support behind Republican Mike Rogers, igniting outrage inside her own party just days before a pivotal election.
In a stunning act of political betrayal, Haley Stevens, a Michigan Democrat and former opponent of Abdul-El-Sayed in the U.S. Senate primary, endorsed Republican Mike Rogers on Sunday. The move comes only days before a crucial election that could shape the balance of power in Congress.
Stevens announced her decision after a church service in Detroit, where she appeared alongside Rogers. She said, "Our Democratic nominee for Senate said I was no longer welcome in his campaign and that I should stay away," using that grievance to justify backing Rogers, who is backed by President Donald Trump. The endorsement triggered the resignation of her top aide and drew sharp condemnation from party officials.
El-Sayed brushed off the endorsement and refocused attention on the issues voters are facing, including the crushing cost of living. He said, "At the end of the day I actually don't think about Haley Stevens," making clear that he does not see her move as relevant to his campaign.
The rift between Stevens and El-Sayed has deepened since the primary, especially over sharply different positions on Israel. Stevens, a strong supporter of Israel, drew backlash over her past remarks and associations, while El-Sayed has faced criticism for comments tied to a synagogue attack in Michigan.
Democratic leaders responded with outrage over Stevens' endorsement, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer calling it a "despicable betrayal." Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel said Stevens has abandoned the values of her party. Even so, party officials insist they remain united behind El-Sayed as the election approaches.
As early voting continues, Democrats are worried about turnout among key voter groups, especially in Detroit, where Stevens once had substantial support. The primary was defined by bitter rivalry, with both candidates trading personal attacks while outside groups poured money into the race. Stevens had previously promised to back El-Sayed after the primary, but has now reversed course and thrown her support to Rogers, intensifying the damage within the party.