Democratic Congresswoman Haley Stevenshas stunned American politics by endorsing Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan’s crucial US Senate election.
The unexpected announcement came on Sunday, November 1, 2026, just two days before the November 3 midterm elections.
Stevens previously lost the Democratic Senate primary to Abdul El-Sayed, making her decision a major setback for her own party.
Why Did Haley Stevens Support a Republican?
Stevens announced her endorsement through a video shared on social media.
She accused Democratic nominee Abdul El-Sayed of excluding her from his campaign.
Their dispute intensified over a political advertisement linking US military assistance to Israel with rising living costs.
Stevens criticized the advertisement, describing its message as antisemitic.
However, El-Sayed rejected responsibility, explaining that an independent political group produced the advertisement without his campaign’s involvement.
Trump Welcomes Stevens’ Surprise Endorsement
Republican candidate Mike Rogers welcomed Stevens’ support during a church appearance in Detroit.
President Donald Trump also praised the decision and suggested Stevens should consider joining the Republican Party.
Despite endorsing Rogers, Stevens insisted she remained a committed Democrat.
Democrats Condemn Stevens’ Political Move
Michigan Democratic leaders strongly criticized the endorsement.
Several members of Stevens’ congressional staff reportedly resigned following her announcement.
Meanwhile, senior Democrats reaffirmed their support for El-Sayed.
The Democratic candidate urged voters to focus on economic challenges rather than internal political disagreements.
Why Is Michigan’s Senate Election Important?
Michigan represents a crucial battleground in the struggle for control of the US Senate.
A New York Times/Siena poll showed El-Sayed leading Rogers by 53% to 42%.
However, Stevens’ endorsement has introduced fresh uncertainty ahead of Tuesday’s election.
