Haley Stevens, the Democratic representative from Michigan, unexpectedly distanced herself from her party on Sunday by supporting Mike Rogers, the Republican candidate in the crucial Michigan Senate election. This endorsement was announced just two days before the midterm elections, in competition with Abdul El-Sayed, the leading Democrat.
Stevens' Explanation for Supporting Rogers
Stevens, who had lost in the primary against El-Sayed, told reporters in an interview: "This is a very close election, and Abdul has clearly shown that I am not welcome in his campaign." Her statement has caused new tensions within the Democratic Party.
Reactions to Stevens' Support
Stevens' support for Rogers comes at a time when Democrats are trying to regain control of both chambers of Congress from Republicans led by Donald Trump. This race in Michigan is seen as a key battleground for Democrats in their bid to take the Senate.
The Trump administration also supported Stevens and praised her for her "courage." Trump wrote on his platform: "Haley said what very few people are willing to say and showed extraordinary loyalty to the great people of Michigan."
This action also highlights divisions within the Democratic Party, where leftist candidates clash with party establishments on key issues. El-Sayed, who is now recognized as a national figure, has been a fierce critic of U.S. relations with Israel and has called for a halt to arms sales to the country.
El-Sayed reacted to this support, saying: "At the end of the day, I really don't think about Haley Stevens. I think about 9,999,998 other people." He emphasized that he cares more about real policies than political issues.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer described Stevens' action as a "disgraceful betrayal," and the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus in Michigan stated that she has "shown herself to be a traitor."
In an interview with CNN, Stevens explained her decision: "I woke up this morning with my eyes wide open and focused on what was in my heart." She also stated that she still hopes Democrats will take the Senate.
If El-Sayed is elected, he will be the first Muslim in the Senate. Trump has repeatedly attacked him during the campaign, calling him a "jihadist" and claiming he wants to implement Islamic law in the United States.
Most polls indicate that El-Sayed is narrowly ahead of Rogers on election day.
