DETROIT, MI – Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers is reaching out to Democrats dissatisfied with their party’s choice for the Michigan Senate race, offering them a chance to join his campaign. Rogers, a former congressman and FBI agent, is giving the Senate another try after a narrow loss two years ago. On Thursday, he introduced his “Democrats for Mike Rogers” coalition in a western Detroit neighborhood, aiming to sway voters tired of a divisive Democratic primary.
In the Democratic primary, Abdul El-Sayed narrowly defeated the more moderate Rep. Haley Stevens. Rogers is now appealing to Democrats who disagree with El-Sayed’s far-left policies and past statements, as he seeks to shift a key Democrat-held Senate seat.
“To Democrat voters who feel their nominee doesn’t represent their values, all hope is not lost. I’m not asking you to be a Republican. I’m asking you for the opportunity to earn your trust… our door is open,”Rogers emphasized, trying to attract those uneasy with El-Sayed’s past comments.
A recent AARP public opinion survey showed El-Sayed and Rogers neck and neck, while a Fox News poll conducted earlier this month gave Rogers a slight four-point lead. This advantage comes as a result of stronger solidarity among Republicans, with 96% backing Rogers. In contrast, 91% of Democrats supported El-Sayed, but only 69% of non-DSA Democrats and independents were on board.
In an interview following the campaign event, Rogers noted the opportunity presented by skeptical Democrat voters. “It’s Michigan,” he stated. “We’re going to take advantage of the fact that people are pausing to think if he [El-Sayed] represents their values.” Rogers finds encouragement in Democrats who have traditionally voted against Republicans finding a reason to support him, believing this will highlight the importance of values in the election.
Chelsea, a voter from West Bloomfield, Michigan, and previously a staunch Democrat, explained her support for Rogers. “Sometimes the election calls for us to look at something bigger than our party lines,”
she said, pointing out her concerns with El-Sayed not aligning with her values.
The El-Sayed campaign responded by highlighting Rogers’ connections to former President Donald Trump. They criticized Rogers for supporting policies they claim will negatively impact Michigan, accusing him of prioritizing Trump over local interests.
El-Sayed, an epidemiologist and former Wayne County Health Department director, would make history as the first Muslim senator if elected. He promotes “Medicare-for-all” and has taken a strong stance against Israel’s actions in Gaza, labeling them as “genocide.” His campaign received backing from progressive figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Rabbi Asher Lopatin supported Rogers during the campaign event, noting shared concerns over El-Sayed. He pointed out a trend among Jewish voters who usually vote Democrat but are now considering Rogers due to El-Sayed’s policies and rhetoric.
Concerns among Jewish voters about safety and political rhetoric were addressed by Rogers, who emphasized the impact of such discussions in the general election. El-Sayed’s critical views of Israel and groups like AIPAC were notable in his primary campaign. However, he assured commitment to Jewish safety after securing his nomination.