Michigan Governor Whitmer Endorses Rep. Haley Stevens Ahead of Senate Primary

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has publicly backed Representative Haley Stevens in the upcoming U.S. Senate Democratic primary in the state. Stevens is regarded as a centrist candidate, whereas her opponent, Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, aligns more with progressive politics. Both candidates are currently leading the race, and early voting is set to commence.

Whitmer’s endorsement is a potential advantage for Stevens, considering Whitmer’s significant victories in previous elections in Michigan. When addressing supporters at a Teamsters hall in Detroit, Whitmer praised Stevens, saying, “Michiganders need a fighter in Washington and there are few leaders with more fight in ’em than Haley Stevens.” She was joined by South Carolina Representative Jim Clyburn at the event.

Previously, Whitmer had defeated El-Sayed in the 2018 Democratic primary for governor. Stevens, noted for flipping a Republican House seat in 2018, also has the backing of Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and Michigan Senator Gary Peters, who is retiring after two terms.

Dr. Abdul El-Sayed is not without significant support. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont and New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have thrown their support behind him. Roxie Richner, a spokesperson for El-Sayed, commented on the endorsements, indicating that the corporate establishment has chosen their candidate, and now voters must decide.

The Democratic primary in Michigan is scheduled for August 4. The winner will contend against the Republican candidate, former Representative Mike Rogers, in the November elections. For Democrats, maintaining control of this Michigan Senate seat is crucial in their efforts to alter the current Republican majority in the U.S. Senate.