Michigan Senate Primary: Democrats Expose Radical Divisions in Contentious Debate
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Rep. Haley Stevens and left-wing activist Abdul El-Sayed clashed in their final debate, revealing the Democratic Party’s internal chaos over Israel, border security, and the influence of outside money as they fight for their party’s nomination.
Rep. Haley Stevens and Abdul El-Sayed, a former Detroit health official known for his radical views, wrapped up their final debate Monday, each trying to convince voters they are best positioned to keep Michigan’s Senate seat in Democratic hands. The race, which could determine control of the U.S. Senate, highlighted the deep divisions within the Democratic Party. Stevens, who has managed to win in a Republican-leaning district, touted her mainstream credentials and alliance with Governor Gretchen Whitmer, while El-Sayed doubled down on his promises to reject corporate and foreign influence, a thinly veiled attack on pro-Israel groups and American businesses.
During the debate, El-Sayed had to walk back a disturbing comment about 'putting an ogre on a pike,' clarifying it was aimed at Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman, not Stevens. He also complained about a TV ad funded by a group linked to AIPAC, claiming it misrepresented his controversial remarks about Michelle Obama and Michigan politicians. 'I’m the father of two daughters… to say that because I wrote an op-ed 15 years ago I’m disrespecting anybody is just inconsistent with the truth,' El-Sayed insisted, attempting to deflect criticism of his past statements.
Stevens distanced herself from AIPAC but made clear her support for a two-state solution, a position that has long been the mainstream approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict. 'He has attacked me by name for purporting that the people of Palestine and the people of Israel deserve to live side by side peacefully,' she said, highlighting El-Sayed’s willingness to attack fellow Democrats over Israel.
On immigration, Stevens pointed to her efforts to limit Trump’s deportation policies, while El-Sayed took an even more extreme position, calling for the abolition of ICE and accusing his own party of 'cowardice' for not going far enough. 'I think we need to abolish ICE because I am not afraid of what they’re going to say about me,' he said, signaling his disregard for border security and law enforcement.
Personal attacks flew as Stevens questioned the need for a 'celebrity' candidate, while El-Sayed tried to justify his record as a public-health advocate. The winner will face Republican Mike Rogers in November, giving voters a clear choice between far-left policies and common-sense conservative leadership as Democrats scramble to hold onto the Senate.