Detroit:In a significant departure from party solidarity on the eve of the US midterm congressional elections, Democratic Representative Haley Stevens has endorsed Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers. This move deals a substantial setback to Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Stevens announced her endorsement on social media, stating that she was no longer welcome in El-Sayed's campaign and expressing her support for Rogers. Despite her endorsement, Stevens emphasized her commitment to the Democratic Party, though her decision could alienate her from fellow party members.
El-Sayed, who is leading in most polls, may face challenges due to this intra-party endorsement. The support for Rogers from a prominent Democrat like Stevens might influence voter preferences and impact the election outcome.
President Donald Trump praised Stevens' endorsement, describing it as a display of "bravery" and "loyalty" to the state. He commended her decision on his platform, Truth Social, for voicing support for Rogers.
Following Stevens' announcement, her congressional staff, including her chief of staff, resigned. It remains unclear if these resignations are directly related to the endorsement.
In response, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer reaffirmed the party's support for El-Sayed, criticizing any attacks on him and emphasizing the unity among Senate Democrats for his campaign.
Stevens' endorsement marks a notable event, intensifying existing tensions within the Democratic Party. Her recent appearance with Rogers at a church in Detroit underscores this internal conflict. Previously, Stevens had committed to supporting El-Sayed following her primary defeat to him.
In recent debates, Stevens and El-Sayed clashed over campaign finance issues related to Israel. Stevens had received significant donations from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), while El-Sayed criticized these influences and defended his campaign's focus.
El-Sayed, poised to become the first Muslim US Senator if elected, also faces religiously charged attacks. Rogers has been accused of using Islamophobic rhetoric, which El-Sayed has countered by drawing parallels to historical religious biases in politics.