Michigan Democrats hold primary debate on Mackinac Island as party tests future direction
Michigan Democrats are holding a debate on Thursday among the top three candidates competing for the party’s U.S. Senate nomination, as the party seeks to retain an open seat and regain a Senate majority. The debate takes place at the state party’s annual policy conference on Mackinac Island, offering the candidates a chance to contrast their positions before a statewide audience. The primary is scheduled for August 4, and the race is viewed as a test for the party’s direction after 2024 losses. U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, and former public health official Abdul El-Sayed are the Democratic contenders. The Republican candidate is former congressman Mike Rogers, who narrowly lost the 2024 Senate race and is running in an uncontested primary. Democratic Sen. Gary Peters is not seeking a third term, and no Michigan Republican has won a Senate seat since 1994.
What’s reported
The top three Democratic Senate primary candidates are debating Thursday at the state party’s annual policy conference on Mackinac Island.
The primary is August 4.
U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens is seen as the more moderate, establishment-aligned candidate with endorsements from battleground state senators.
Abdul El-Sayed has taken the progressive lane, with early backing from Sen. Bernie Sanders, and has called for “Medicare for All” and higher taxes on the wealthy.
State Sen. Mallory McMorrow has positioned herself between the two main rivals, criticizing the Democratic establishment and saying she would not support Chuck Schumer as Senate Democratic leader.
Republican candidate Mike Rogers lost the 2024 Senate race to Democrat Elissa Slotkin by fewer than 20,000 votes, and Donald Trump carried Michigan in 2024.
Rogers has an uncontested primary and noted he faced financial disadvantages in 2024.
The Republican Senate campaign organization has reserved $45 million in ads, compared to $20 million by Democrats.
Outside spending in the general election is expected to reach nine figures.
Key figures
U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (Democratic candidate)
State Sen. Mallory McMorrow (Democratic candidate)
Abdul El-Sayed (former public health official, Democratic candidate)
Mike Rogers (Republican candidate, former congressman)
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.)
Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.)
Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.)
Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.)
Elissa Slotkin (outgoing Democratic senator)
Gary Peters (outgoing Democratic senator)
Donald Trump (former president)
Hasan Piker (streamer, mentioned in relation to El-Sayed)
Sources: abcnews.com
