The essentials
Michigan Democratic Senate primary held August 4, 2026 between Stevens and El-Sayed.
Michigan Democrats held a Senate primary on August 4, 2026, following Senator Gary Peters's announcement in April 2025 that he would not seek reelection.
Haley Stevens, who has represented Michigan's 11th Congressional District since 2019, entered the race in April 2025. Stevens previously served as chief of staff for Obama's Auto Industry Task Force. She secured endorsements from Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Nancy Pelosi.
Her primary opponent, Abdul El-Sayed, received endorsements from Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative AOC. An August 2 EPIC-MRA poll showed El-Sayed leading Stevens by up to 15 points. The race drew national attention, with prominent figures from across the Democratic spectrum campaigning in the state. Hasan Piker campaigned with El-Sayed on August 3, one day before the primary.
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Democratic leadership backs experienced House member Stevens
Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Nancy Pelosi endorsed Haley Stevens, citing her decade of legislative experience and prior service on Obama's Auto Industry Task Force. Stevens represents a continuation of established Democratic priorities, with major party figures rallying behind her candidacy in the competitive primary race.
Sanders, AOC mobilize base behind El-Sayed challenge
Abdul El-Sayed secured endorsements from Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative AOC, energizing the party's progressive wing. An August 2 poll showed El-Sayed leading by up to 15 points, suggesting significant grassroots momentum ahead of the August 4 primary election.