Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has endorsed Abdul El-Sayed in the Michigan Democratic Senate primary. Reported first by The New York Times, it signifies a major endorsement this midterm cycle. Ocasio-Cortez stated that El-Sayed is best positioned to retain the seat in November.
El-Sayed is competing in a three-way race against Rep. Haley Stevens and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow. The primary’s winner will move to the general election in a key battleground state. McMorrow’s team didn’t respond for comments, and Stevens’ spokesperson declined to comment.
This race marks the first contested Senate primary endorsement by Ocasio-Cortez. She skipped endorsing candidates in other contested primaries in states like Maine and Texas. Progressive candidates have recently gained traction in congressional primaries, highlighting El-Sayed’s advancement as the most progressive option.
“AOC has spent her career taking on the powerful on behalf of everyday people, and she has shown all of us what courageous, smart, values-driven leadership looks like,” said El-Sayed.
El-Sayed expressed his honor at receiving the endorsement. The move contrasts with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s support for Stevens. Stevens has garnered endorsements from entities like The Detroit News editorial board, alongside senators like Ruben Gallego and Catherine Cortez Masto. McMorrow has been supported by the Detroit Free Press editorial board and senators like Elizabeth Warren and Chris Murphy.
Ocasio-Cortez’s endorsement underscores the debate among Democrats about the electability of candidates in crucial races. Stevens’ supporters cite her moderate stance as appealing to swing voters. McMorrow aims to attract both party wings.
The Michigan Senate race is critical for Democrats aiming to gain Senate control. Michigan, won by Donald Trump in 2024, was previously claimed by Joe Biden in 2020. With Sen. Gary Peters retiring, the Democratic nominee is expected to face Republican Mike Rogers, who narrowly lost a Senate race in 2024.
Key Democratic Senate Primaries in Michigan and Minnesota 
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