In a debate held on July 7, 2026, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, former Wayne County Health Director Abdul El-Sayed and Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI) engaged in a contentious exchange during the Democratic Senate primary. El-Sayed accused Stevens of being influenced by corporate interests, while Stevens claimed that El-Sayed is supported by Republican spending. The debate followed the withdrawal of state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, narrowing the race to these two candidates vying to challenge former Republican Rep. Mike Rogers in a closely watched Senate race.
The candidates discussed various topics, including inflation, immigration, and foreign policy, but much of the debate focused on the ideological divide within the Democratic Party regarding corporate influence versus legislative accomplishments. El-Sayed, endorsed by progressive figures such as Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, criticized Stevens for her connections to corporate donors and outside spending, specifically referencing a trip she took funded by a super PAC.
Stevens countered by arguing that Republicans view El-Sayed as a more favorable opponent for Rogers and emphasized her track record of winning competitive races. She asserted that her legislative record demonstrates independence from corporate influence. The debate highlighted the contrasting visions for the Democratic Party as the primary approaches, with El-Sayed advocating for an anti-establishment message and Stevens focusing on experience and defeating Trump.