Gretchen Whitmer endorses Haley Stevens in Michigan Senate primary

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer endorsed Representative Haley Stevens on July 25, 2026, ahead of the state's U.S. Senate Democratic primary. Stevens, who is considered a centrist candidate, is competing against progressive Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, both of whom are seen as front-runners as early voting begins. Whitmer's endorsement may provide Stevens with an advantage in a state where she has previously won by significant margins. During an event in Detroit, Whitmer stated that Stevens possesses the qualities necessary to succeed in Washington. Stevens has also received support from Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and retiring Michigan Senator Gary Peters. El-Sayed is backed by Senators Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The Michigan Democratic primary is scheduled for August 4, 2026, with the winner set to face former Republican Representative Mike Rogers in the November election. Democrats aim to gain control of the U.S. Senate and view Michigan as a critical state in this effort.