- Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer endorsed Rep. Haley Stevens in the Democratic primary for the state's open U.S. Senate seat, calling her 'as Michigan as it gets.'
- Whitmer praised Stevens for her role in saving the auto industry during the Obama administration and her efforts to lower prescription drug costs and protect Social Security.
- Whitmer stated, "Haley will do whatever it takes to get things done for the people of Michigan, and we need her now more than ever," during her endorsement.
- Stevens, who represents Michigan's 11th congressional district, is competing against former Wayne County health director Abdul El-Sayed in the primary.
- Whitmer's endorsement comes as early voting begins on Saturday, just before the August 4 primary.
- The endorsement is seen as a significant boost for Stevens, who is viewed as a moderate candidate in a race that has become a focal point for the Democratic Party's internal divisions.
- Whitmer's endorsement highlights their shared work on policy priorities, including strengthening Michigan's manufacturing sector and lowering prescription drug costs.
- Stevens expressed her gratitude, stating, "Governor Whitmer has been a role model for so many Michiganders, myself included," acknowledging the governor's leadership during tough times.
- The primary race is characterized by a divide between the moderate establishment and progressive factions within the Democratic Party, with El-Sayed representing the latter.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer endorsed Rep. Haley Stevens for the U.S. Senate on Friday, emphasizing her proven track record in delivering results for the state.1
"Haley will do whatever it takes to get things done for the people of Michigan, and we need her now more than ever," Whitmer stated.3
Stevens, who represents Michigan's 11th congressional district, is competing against former Wayne County health director Abdul El-Sayed in a primary that has drawn significant attention.4
Whitmer highlighted Stevens' role in saving the auto industry during the Obama administration and her advocacy for lower prescription drug costs and Social Security protections.2
"With the great Gary Peters stepping down, Michigan needs an effective fighter to step up and deliver for our state in the U.S. Senate," Whitmer said.
The endorsement comes as early voting begins Saturday, with a poll indicating that half of undecided voters might be swayed by Whitmer's support.5
Stevens expressed her gratitude, calling Whitmer a role model and stating, "She’s led our state through some of our hardest challenges, always delivering for our manufacturing economy, our auto industry, and our workers."
The primary is seen as a critical test for the Democratic Party, with Stevens representing a more moderate stance compared to El-Sayed's progressive platform.
As the race heats up, Michigan Republicans have framed Whitmer's endorsement as a sign of panic among establishment Democrats, asserting that both candidates share similar extreme views.
The winner of the primary will face Republican Mike Rogers in the general election, making this contest pivotal for both parties.
“Whitmer praised Stevens for helping save the auto industry and called her 'as Michigan as it gets.' The endorsement comes as a recent poll showed Stevens and Abdul El-Sayed each with 34% support, with half of undecided voters saying Whitmer's backing could sway their choice.”
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