Full Breakdown
Michigan Democrats Accuse Republican-Tied Group of Interfering in Senate Primary
1/28/2026, 4:09:29 AM
Allegations of Dark Money Influence
Michigan Democratic leaders have publicly condemned a Republican-affiliated group, ProgressiveMI, for allegedly attempting to interfere in the Democratic primary for the state Senate District 35 seat. This seat was vacated by Democrat Kristen McDonald Rivet a year prior. The accusations surfaced just days before the primary election scheduled for February 3, 2026. Curtis Hertel, chairman of the Michigan Democratic Party, characterized ProgressiveMI as a "dark money" political action committee with connections to President Donald Trump and other Republican figures. He stated, “Voters of the 35th District deserve to be able to make a decision about bogus ads from the MAGA Republicans trying to trick them.”
The group has reportedly spent "tens of thousands of dollars" on advertisements and mailers promoting the candidacy of Democrat Pamela Pugh, a member of the Michigan State Board of Education. Pugh is one of six Democrats competing for the nomination. Hertel urged the Republican group to refrain from meddling in the Democratic primary, emphasizing the need for fair competition based on ideas rather than deceptive tactics.
Responses from Candidates and Party Officials
Pugh's campaign responded to the allegations by highlighting that negative mailers in the race have also originated from within the Democratic Party. They criticized the focus on Republican interference while ignoring internal party issues. “Unsolicited, unauthorized and unwanted Republican interference is being amplified and exploited,” the campaign stated, calling for a rejection of all dark money influence in the race.
State Rep. Amos O’Neal, who represents part of District 35, echoed these sentiments during a conference call with Democratic leaders, urging voters to educate themselves about the candidates and not be swayed by misleading advertisements. He warned, “Don’t let Donald Trump and his buddies decide for you.” Jennifer Austin, chairperson of the Midland County Democratic Party, described the ProgressiveMI advertising as “underhanded and dishonest,” urging voters to thoroughly research the candidates before casting their ballots.
Republican Response and Context
In response to the Democrats' accusations, State Sen. Jim Runestad, chairman of the Michigan Republican Party, dismissed the claims as an internal issue for the Democrats. He pointed out that Democrats have previously engaged in similar tactics, spending millions to influence Republican primaries. Runestad stated, “The hypocrisy is glaring,” and suggested that the Democrats should address their own internal conflicts rather than publicly airing grievances.
The outcome of the District 35 election is significant, as it could potentially shift the balance of power in the Michigan Senate, which currently consists of 19 Democrats and 18 Republicans. The heightened interest in this primary is reflected in campaign finance reports, which show that Democratic candidate Chedrick Greene has raised $263,752.85, while Pugh has garnered $120,629.04 in contributions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Voters of the 35th District deserve to be able to make a decision about bogus ads from the MAGA (Make America Great Again) Republicans trying to trick them,” — Curtis Hertel, Chairman of the Michigan Democratic Party
- “I’m here today to warn the voters in my community not to fall for these tricks,” — Amos O’Neal, State Representative
- “We really hope that everyone takes the time, if you plan to vote in a Democratic primary, to learn about each and every one of the candidates,” — Jennifer Austin, Chairperson of the Midland County Democratic Party
- “The hypocrisy is glaring,” — Jim Runestad, Chairman of the Michigan Republican Party
The unfolding events in Michigan's Senate primary illustrate the complexities and tensions inherent in electoral politics, particularly as external influences and internal party dynamics collide.
