Michigan Rep. Haley Stevens Endorses GOP Senate Candidate Mike Rogers

In an unexpected development in the Michigan Senate contest, Democratic Representative Haley Stevens announced her endorsement of Republican candidate Mike Rogers, choosing him over the Democratic nominee Abdul El-Sayed. This decision comes less than 48 hours before the crucial election that will influence control of the U.S. Senate during President Donald Trump's remaining term.

Stevens, who previously lost the Democratic primary to El-Sayed earlier this year, made her endorsement public following escalating tensions between her and El-Sayed's campaign. The dispute partly stemmed from a controversial advertisement released by Rebellion PAC, a political action committee. The ad depicted a couple debating whether they could afford groceries as a consequence of U.S. support for Israel. El-Sayed’s campaign has denied any involvement or endorsement of the ad.

In a video statement posted on the social media platform X, Stevens addressed the situation directly. She acknowledged that El-Sayed had told her she was no longer welcome in his campaign and expressed agreement with that stance. "That's why I am endorsing Mike Rogers for the United States Senate today," Stevens declared. She also criticized political commentator Hasan Piker, who has campaigned alongside El-Sayed and whom Stevens said she did not support.

El-Sayed, speaking alongside Democratic leaders Representative Jim Clyburn of South Carolina and Senator Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland outside a Detroit church, brushed off Stevens' endorsement. "I actually don't think about Haley Stevens," he said. El-Sayed emphasized his focus on the everyday concerns of Michigan families, including education, food security, and healthcare affordability.

The Michigan Senate seat up for grabs became available after incumbent Democratic Senator Gary Peters announced he would not seek re-election. The race between Rogers, a former U.S. Representative, and El-Sayed has drawn significant attention as it could determine the Senate majority. Stevens had supported El-Sayed after her primary loss, but their relationship soured over disagreements tied to U.S. policies on Israel and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Stevens is known for her strong support of Israel, while El-Sayed has labeled Israel's actions in Gaza following the October 7 terror attacks as genocide.

Stevens' fiancé, Jason Turkish, had previously endorsed Rogers, citing concerns about increasing antisemitism. Following her endorsement announcement, Stevens acknowledged the backlash she faced from some quarters but appeared resolute in her decision.

The endorsement triggered immediate consequences within Stevens' congressional office, with multiple staffers reportedly resigning. Her move also drew sharp criticism from Democratic leaders. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer reaffirmed the party's support for El-Sayed, condemning Republican attacks on him as Islamophobic. Schumer called Stevens' endorsement a "despicable betrayal." Democratic Senators Gary Peters and Elissa Slotkin both publicly distanced themselves from Stevens, with Slotkin urging anyone prioritizing personal interests over Michigan voters to reconsider their role.

Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel suggested Stevens was no longer a member of the state party and would not be in the future.

On the Republican side, former President Donald Trump praised Stevens' endorsement on Truth Social, highlighting her respect among Michigan's African American and Jewish communities and framing her support as a significant boost to Rogers’ campaign.

This unexpected cross-party endorsement highlights divisions within Michigan’s political landscape as the state prepares to vote. The contest between Rogers and El-Sayed remains a focal point in the national battle for Senate control. The outcome will not only affect party dynamics but also reflect broader debates on foreign policy, economic priorities, and social issues that are central to Michigan voters.

As election day approaches, the spotlight remains on how these internal party conflicts and endorsements will influence voter decisions in a state seen as critical to the future balance of power in Washington.