Michigan state Senator Mallory McMorrow announced on July 5, 2026, that she is suspending her campaign for the U.S. Senate. This decision comes just weeks before the primary election, leaving the state's Democratic Party with a choice between moderate Rep. Haley Stevens and progressive Dr. Abdul El-Sayed to replace retiring Democratic Senator Gary Peters. McMorrow did not provide a reason for her exit but stated, 'Whoever wins this primary on Aug. 4 will have my full support.'
McMorrow gained prominence after a notable speech in 2022 defending LGBTQ+ rights, and although she was competitive in early polls, her rivals have gained traction. The Democratic primary has been characterized by divisions over Israel, with El-Sayed advocating for Palestinian rights and Stevens identifying as a pro-Israel Democrat. The winner of the primary is expected to face Republican Mike Rogers in the general election.