Michigan Senate race highlights Democrat defection as Haley Stevens backs Republican Mike Rogers
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Congresswoman Haley Stevens endorsed Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan’s extremely close Senate battle, drawing harsh attacks from Democratic leaders as the nation moves toward the 2026 midterm elections.
The United States will hold its 2026 midterm elections on Tuesday, with control of Congress at stake for the remainder of President Donald Trump’s term. Republicans currently hold the White House and both chambers of Congress, while Democrats are trying to win back a majority after years of obstruction and political attacks.
In Michigan, the Senate race has become a major focal point. After losing the Democratic primary to Abdul El-Sayed, Congresswoman Haley Stevens announced that she would support Republican Mike Rogers, a decision that drew attention for breaking ranks with her own party. In a video posted to X, Stevens said, "> I don’t belong in Abdul’s campaign. Who we are as Michiganders is not hate and is not what we are getting out from our Democratic nominee right now. That’s why I am endorsing Mike Rogers."
Rogers thanked Stevens, describing her support as "courage" in remarks to reporters. President Trump, speaking at a rally in Iowa, called Stevens "very brave" and said he would welcome her joining the Republican Party.
Democratic leaders reacted sharply. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer labeled the endorsement a "despicable betrayal," and Michigan Democratic Party chair Curtis Hertel posted on X that Stevens is no longer a member of the state party. Several of Stevens’ staff reportedly resigned after her announcement, showing how deeply the decision rattled Democratic ranks.
El-Sayed, who would become the first Muslim senator if elected, dismissed the endorsement and said he remains focused on issues affecting Michiganders. The race is viewed as one of the most competitive Senate contests, with the outcome expected to influence which party controls the chamber.
The broader midterms are being framed as a referendum on President Trump’s agenda, with voters deciding congressional representation amid high living costs and ongoing international conflicts.