Michigan Democratic primary: Progressive El-Sayed leads in key Senate race
Progressive candidate Abdul El-Sayed holds a narrow lead over moderate Haley Stevens in Michigan's Democratic Senate primary, a contest seen as a key test for the party's direction. The winner will face Republican Mike Rogers in November.
With about 70 percent of the estimated vote counted, Abdul El-Sayed led Representative Haley Stevens by 49.8 to 46.3 percent on Tuesday. The race has become one of the clearest indicators of where the Democratic Party is heading, pitting El-Sayed's progressive platform against Stevens, who is backed by the party establishment and pro-Israel groups.
Michigan is a crucial swing state, and the outcome is being watched closely to see whether Democratic voters are open to candidates who challenge party leaders and emphasize reducing costs, expanding healthcare, and limiting the influence of big money in politics. The winner will take on Republican Mike Rogers in November, a race that could affect Democrats' efforts to retake the U.S. Senate.
The primary also highlights the divide over U.S. support for Israel. Michigan has one of the largest Arab-American communities in the country, making it a testing ground for Democratic attitudes. Representative Debbie Dingell, who remained neutral, said the party must unite behind its nominee, citing voter concerns about the costs of groceries, gas, rent, and healthcare. Recent Reuters/Ipsos polling shows Israel's favorability among Democrats has fallen sharply, from 59 percent in 2018 to 22 percent in May.
The race is also being watched by potential 2028 presidential candidates. A victory for El-Sayed could amplify debates about economic populism, anti-establishment campaigning, and a tougher stance on Israel. A Reuters/Ipsos poll released Tuesday found that self-identified liberals now make up 71 percent of Democrats, up from 55 percent in 2012, and that majorities support universal healthcare, expanded abortion access, and higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy. Only 16 percent of Democrats backed continued military and economic aid to Israel, while 57 percent opposed it.
In addition to Michigan, primaries were held in Virginia, Missouri, Kansas, and Washington state. In Washington, Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Republican John Braun advanced to the general election, while progressive Brent Hennrich finished third. In Virginia, Democrats nominated Elaine Luria and Shannon Taylor in two competitive districts. In Missouri, Cori Bush failed to unseat Representative Wesley Bell in a rematch; pro-Israel groups spent millions to keep her from returning to Congress.
