Story perspectives

Peters Backs Stevens; Poll Gives Her 48% vs El-Sayed

7/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Sen. Gary Peters endorsed Rep. Haley Stevens on July 13, ending his pledge to stay neutral.
A Detroit News/WDIV-TV poll of 500 likely Democratic voters showed Haley Stevens at 48% and Abdul El-Sayed at 41%, with 10% undecided.
Outside-group ads have spent about $49 million for Haley Stevens and $2.7 million for Abdul El-Sayed, per ad-tracking data.
Thirty-eight percent of likely Democratic primary voters say fighting President Donald Trump is a top priority.

History

Historical Context

In 2008, Senator Ted Kennedy’s January endorsement helped Barack Obama capitalize on a record-breaking $32 million January fundraising haul, fueling his surge through Super Tuesday’s 23-state, 1,681-delegate showdown. Today’s Michigan Democratic primary echoes that dynamic: Rep. Haley Stevens, backed by Sen. Gary Peters, confronts $49 million in ad spending against Abdul El-Sayed, underscoring the lasting impact of endorsements and money on intra-party contests.

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Story summary

Sen. Gary Peters endorsed Rep. Haley Stevens on July 13, ending his pledge to stay neutral.
A Detroit News/WDIV-TV poll of 500 likely Democratic voters showed Haley Stevens at 48% and Abdul El-Sayed at 41%, with 10% undecided.
Outside-group ads have spent about $49 million for Haley Stevens and $2.7 million for Abdul El-Sayed, per ad-tracking data.
Thirty-eight percent of likely Democratic primary voters say fighting President Donald Trump is a top priority.

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