Story perspectives

Michigan Democrats Accuse Republicans of Primary Interference

1/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Michigan Democratic leaders criticized ProgressiveMI, a Republican-affiliated group, for allegedly interfering in the state Senate District 35 primary.
They claim the group produced misleading ads to support Pamela Pugh (Democrat), who faces five other candidates.
Curtis Hertel, chairman of the Michigan Democratic Party, condemned the tactics.
Jim Runestad accused Democrats of hypocrisy, citing past meddling in Republican primaries.
The election could shift the balance of power in the state Senate.

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Story summary

Michigan Democratic leaders criticized ProgressiveMI, a Republican-affiliated group, for allegedly interfering in the state Senate District 35 primary.
They claim the group produced misleading ads to support Pamela Pugh (Democrat), who faces five other candidates.
Curtis Hertel, chairman of the Michigan Democratic Party, condemned the tactics.
Jim Runestad accused Democrats of hypocrisy, citing past meddling in Republican primaries.
The election could shift the balance of power in the state Senate.