Just two days before the midterm elections, the internal conflict within the Democratic Party in Michigan has reached a critical point with the expulsion of Representative Haley Stevens. Curtis Hertel, chairman of the Democrats in Michigan, announced via a post that Stevens is no longer an active member of the party and will not be one in the future. This decision came approximately one hour after Stevens revealed her support for Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers.
Stevens explained her shift in allegiance by citing the campaign tactics of her former primary rival, Abdul El-Sayed. In a video posted on X, she stated that El-Sayed had made it clear she was no longer welcome in his campaign. She argued that his rhetoric incited hate and did not align with the values taught to children or those representing Michigan. Stevens, who has represented a congressional district since 2019 after losing the Democratic primary to the progressive El-Sayed, framed her endorsement of Rogers as a necessary stand against what she described as divisive language.
The Republican candidate welcomed Stevens' support during a joint appearance, warning that hate speech could endanger citizens, particularly Jewish people. While El-Sayed dismissed the incident, stating he does not think about Stevens at all, other prominent Democrats reacted with outrage. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned her actions as a "despicable betrayal." Conversely, US President Donald Trump, who has previously insulted El-Sayed, praised Stevens for showing courage.
Sources: Der Spiegel.