Michigan Democrats convened at a unity event on Friday featuring their statewide candidates, coming just three days after a sharply divided U.S. Senate primary contest that exposed rifts within the party’s progressive and moderate factions.
Abdul El-Sayed, a former public health official, won the Democratic Senate primary by a narrow margin over establishment-backed Rep. Haley Stevens. With fewer than three months until the general election, El-Sayed will face Republican Mike Rogers in a contest that carries implications for Senate control. The primary campaign between the two Democrats had grown contentious, with El-Sayed making critical comments about Stevens’ communication abilities and Stevens questioning El-Sayed’s motivations and media focus. Despite the heated contest, Stevens indicated her willingness to campaign alongside El-Sayed following the primary outcome.
El-Sayed struck a reconciliatory tone at the event, stating that the party’s shared values exceeded its internal disagreements. The gathering also featured former transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg, identified as a potential presidential candidate with Michigan residency. The state has emerged as a critical battleground, having supported President Donald Trump in 2016, President Joe Biden in 2020, and Trump again in 2024.
Other Democratic candidates scheduled to appear included gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson, who won her primary decisively and faces Trump-backed Rep. John James in the general election. Also in attendance were Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, running for secretary of state; Eli Savit, seeking the attorney general position; and Curtis Hertel, chair of the Michigan Democratic Party. The Senate seat became open following current Sen. Gary Peters’ decision not to seek reelection.
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