U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens used a CNN interview to defend backing Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan’s Senate race, as voters prepare to decide the seat Tuesday.
The Independent reported that Stevens spoke with CNN’s Anderson Cooper on Sunday, hours after appearing at an event with Rogers. She said El-Sayed had told her he did not need her endorsement, and cited that exchange in explaining her change of support. EconoTimes previously reported Stevens’ endorsement of Rogers.
El-Sayed defeated Stevens in the August Democratic primary. She initially conceded and backed his campaign, The Independent reported. In the CNN interview, Stevens said, “I changed my mind.” She also said she still loved the Democratic Party and called her choice “rock solid.”
The endorsement drew criticism from Democratic figures and praise from Republicans, according to The Independent. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer called it a “despicable betrayal,” while Michigan Rep. Debbie Dingell described Stevens’ CNN performance as “painful.” Rogers praised Stevens’ courage, and President Donald Trump called her “very brave.”
El-Sayed said Sunday that he remained focused on issues affecting Michigan voters. “None of this matters,” he said, according to The Independent.
The two Democrats had also clashed over foreign policy, the outlet reported. A recent dispute involved an ad from an outside liberal group linking U.S. support for Israel to rising prices. Stevens urged El-Sayed to condemn the ad; he said he had no role in it and disagreed with its message. Stevens welcomed his response, The Independent reported.
Democrats currently hold Michigan’s Senate seat. The Independent reported that analysts view the contest as consequential to the party’s effort to gain a Senate majority. Voters are scheduled to cast ballots Tuesday, Nov. 3.
