Full Breakdown
Whitmer Backs Haley Stevens in Michigan Democratic Senate Primary
7/25/2026, 4:31:53 AM
Key Developments
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced in late July that she endorses Rep. Haley Stevens for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate seat that will be contested on Aug. 4. Stevens, a four-term congresswoman from the Detroit area, faces progressive challenger Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a former public-health official who previously ran against Whitmer in the 2018 Democratic gubernatorial primary. Early in-person voting for the primary begins the day after Whitmer’s endorsement.
Background & Context
The race pits the party’s moderate establishment wing against its progressive faction. Whitmer, a two-term governor who defeated El-Sayed in the 2018 primary, has long been a fixture of Michigan’s Democratic establishment. El-Sayed’s campaign is supported by national progressive figures, including Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, while Stevens has secured backing from Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and retiring Sen. Gary Peters.
Data & Statistics
- Campaign-finance filings show Stevens’ candidacy has benefited from “tens of millions” in outside spending, including nearly $30 million from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).
- El-Sayed’s campaign has raised more money overall than Stevens, according to recent disclosures.
- A May poll conducted for the Detroit Regional Chamber recorded 52.2 % approval for Whitmer’s performance as governor, with 39 % disapproval.
Statements from Candidates and Endorsers
Whitmer’s endorsement adds the support of all living Michigan Democratic governors, including former Gov. Jennifer Granholm and former Lt. Gov. Jim Blanchard.
El-Sayed’s campaign, through spokesperson Roxie Richner, criticized Stevens for accepting AIPAC money, framing the race as a contest between the “corporate establishment” and grassroots voters.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As governor, I’ve had one strategy: get things done, and that strategy informs everything that I do,” — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, ran for governor
- “When Michigan’s back is up against the wall, Haley Stevens steps forward, and she steps up,” — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, ran for governor
- “The corporate establishment has closed ranks and made their pick – now, Michigan voters will get to make theirs,” — Roxie Richner, a spokesperson for El-Sayed
