Democratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens Switches Support to Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan Senate Race

Democratic congresswoman Haley Stevens endorsed Republican Mike Rogers in the Michigan Senate race on Sunday. Stevens, who lost the Democratic nomination to Abdul El‑Sayed, appeared beside Rogers at a church service and posted a video to X saying she does not belong in El‑Sayed’s campaign. She added that Michigan’s values are not reflected by the Democratic nominee and that is why she supports Rogers. El‑Sayed told reporters he felt unwelcome by Stevens, saying he does not need her and that the endorsement does not affect his focus on voters’ problems. The two had been slated to share another event, but El‑Sayed asked Stevens to stay away. Their feud grew after a liberal group released an advert blaming Israel for high food prices, which El‑Sayed condemned and said he had no role in creating. When asked about the endorsement, El‑Sayed dismissed it, saying “none of this matters.” In Detroit, voters expressed disappointment; 21‑year‑old student Summer Lawrence called the move a betrayal of Democratic values, while voter Matthew Barera wondered if personal frustration drove Stevens. Rogers thanked Stevens, calling her courage, and former President Donald Trump praised her on Truth Social as loyal to Michigan. Following the announcement, several of Stevens’ staff quit and Michigan Democratic chair Curtis Hertel accused her of abandoning party principles. State Senator Mallory McMorrow urged Stevens to stop the feud, labeling the choice a contest between “MAGA and Michigan.” ## Context The race is one of the nation’s tightest Senate contests and will help decide which party controls Congress. Michigan’s swing‑state status makes endorsements especially visible, and a party split can shape voter perceptions in a close election.