Rogers Courts Disaffected Democrats in Michigan Senate Race

DETROIT, MI – Mike Rogers, a Republican Senate nominee and former congressman from Michigan, extends an open invitation to Democrats dissatisfied with their party’s nominee. On Thursday, Rogers announced his initiative, “Democrats for Mike Rogers,” during a campaign event in Detroit. This comes after Abdul El-Sayed narrowly won a divisive Democratic Senate primary against Haley Stevens.

Rogers, who previously served as a congressman and FBI agent, seeks to attract Democrats unhappy with El-Sayed. He aims to secure a Democrat-held Senate seat in the upcoming midterm elections.

“For those Democrat voters who feel unrepresented by their nominee’s values, our door is open,” Rogers stated, reaching out to those uneasy with El-Sayed’s past comments and policies.

A recent AARP survey shows a close race between El-Sayed and Rogers. A Fox News poll conducted in early August indicates Rogers has a slight four-point lead, largely owing to strong Republican party unity.

Rogers expressed optimism, stating, “It’s going to be a tight race. We plan to take advantage of those considering if El-Sayed truly represents their values.” He emphasized speaking to Democrats who might not traditionally support a Republican candidate.

Chelsea, a Democrat from West Bloomfield, expressed her support for Rogers. “I’ve always been a Democrat, but this election requires looking beyond party lines,” she said, highlighting her disagreement with El-Sayed’s views.

In response to Rogers’ coalition, El-Sayed’s campaign criticized Rogers’ connections to former President Donald Trump. “Mike Rogers prioritizes Trump’s agenda over Michigan’s interests,” spokesperson Cole Wozniak asserted.

El-Sayed, aiming to become the nation’s first Muslim senator, supports “Medicare-for-all” and has spoken against ICE. Endorsed by Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, he criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza, labeling them as “genocide.”

Rabbi Asher Lopatin, sharing his concerns at Rogers’ event, remarked, “It’s crucial to prevent someone like El-Sayed from entering the Senate.” He highlighted the discontent among Jewish voters regarding their treatment at a Democratic Party convention.

Addressing Jewish voters’ concerns, Rogers noted, “I’ve spoken to students afraid to display their Star of David. The violent rhetoric is going to impact the election.”

After his primary win, El-Sayed stressed his commitment to Jewish safety and combating antisemitism.

Paul Steinhauser reports on national campaigns for Fox News.