Michigan Senate race: Democratic congresswoman backs GOP challenger

Democratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens endorsed Republican Mike Rogers for the U.S. Senate on Sunday, choosing the GOP candidate over her party's nominee Abdul El-Sayed just two days before Michigan voters cast their ballots. Stevens, who represents a district in Michigan, made the announcement in a video posted to X, stating that El-Sayed had told her she was no longer welcome in his campaign.

The split stems from weeks of public disagreement over Israel and U.S. military aid. Stevens, a strong supporter of Israel, accused El-Sayed of anti-Semitism after an independent group backing him, Rebellion PAC, released an advertisement linking the cost of living to aid for Israel. The ad depicted a couple putting back groceries to save money for "killing Palestinians." Stevens demanded El-Sayed condemn the spot, while El-Sayed argued the ad was not produced by his campaign and that Stevens was relitigating their primary battle.

Tensions peaked when Stevens was uninvited to a joint church service with El-Sayed. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, who organized the event, told The Associated Press that she asked Stevens to stay away because the situation had become too distracting. Stevens told reporters on Sunday, with Rogers standing beside her, "We can't stand with hate. We can't stand with Hasan Piker," referencing the political streamer whose uncle founded the PAC behind the ad. Stevens said she remains a Democrat and will vote for Democratic candidates in 90 percent of other races on her ballot.

The endorsement has triggered a sharp reaction within the Democratic Party. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called the move a "despicable betrayal" but said he was more focused on policy issues like healthcare and civil rights than on the politics of the decision. He noted that Senate Democrats remained united behind El-Sayed. Trump praised Stevens on Truth Social, calling her decision "bravery" and saying she voiced what few people are willing to say.

Stevens's long-time chief of staff, Justin German, announced his resignation along with several other staff members over the endorsement. German said in a statement that the team was "shocked and heartbroken." The race is closely contested and could determine which party controls the Senate. Stevens had defeated El-Sayed in Wayne and Oakland counties during the August primary, areas with high Democratic turnout. Early voting began on October 24, prior to the latest dispute, and polling suggests El-Sayed has largely consolidated support among Democratic voters.

El-Sayed is a former public health official who could become the first Muslim elected to the U.S. Senate if he wins. Rogers is backed by Trump and seeks to replace retiring Democratic Senator Gary Peters. Republicans currently control both chambers of Congress, and Democrats are aiming to win enough seats to increase scrutiny of the Trump administration.