Michigan Democratic Representative Haley Stevens made a surprising announcement on November 1, 2026, endorsing Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers over her former primary rival Abdul El-Sayed. Stevens had previously lost to El-Sayed in the Democratic primary but had supported his campaign until tensions escalated in recent days. The dispute centered on a controversial political ad by a PAC that linked rising grocery costs to U.S. support for Israel, a subject on which Stevens and El-Sayed sharply disagree. Stevens, a strong supporter of Israel, cited growing concerns over what she described as antisemitism and her inability to work with El-Sayed’s campaign as reasons for backing Rogers.

The endorsement caught many off guard, given that Stevens had been the favored Democratic candidate during the primary with backing from party heavyweights like Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. Schumer and other leading Democrats have publicly condemned Stevens’ flip, calling it a betrayal and reaffirming their support for El-Sayed. Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel stated that Stevens is no longer a member of the Michigan Democratic Party following her endorsement. Prominent Michigan Democrats, including Senator Elissa Slotkin, strongly criticized Stevens, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing voters' interests and democracy over personal grievances.

El-Sayed himself shrugged off Stevens’ endorsement, focusing instead on the real issues facing Michigan families, such as education and healthcare. The stark divide between Stevens and El-Sayed also reflects deeper ideological rifts within the Democratic Party, particularly on the Middle East conflict. El-Sayed has condemned Israel's actions in Gaza as genocidal, while Stevens maintains staunch support for Israel. This disagreement has sharpened existing fault lines amid an election that could determine control of the U.S. Senate going into President Donald Trump’s final two years.

The endorsement drew praise from Trump, who highlighted Stevens as a respected Democrat whose support for Rogers could sway key voter groups in Michigan, including African American and Jewish communities. However, it also triggered fallout within Stevens’ congressional office, with multiple staffers resigning in protest. As the election approaches on November 3, the Michigan Senate race remains intensely competitive, with control of the chamber hanging in the balance. Stevens’ decision underscores the unpredictable and volatile nature of this pivotal contest.