Democratic Rep. Haley Stevens announced an eleventh-hour endorsement of Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan's U.S. Senate race, citing her former primary opponent Abdul El-Sayed's "obsessive" fixation on Israel and what she described as "anti-American" positions.
In an interview published Monday, Stevens told the Detroit Free Press that upon reflection, she realized she had not been "honest" with herself by continuing to support El-Sayed. She characterized his focus on Israel as "obsessive, obsessive, obsessive."
El-Sayed has faced scrutiny for his refusal to directly state whether Israel or Iran poses a greater threat to America. Additionally, a super PAC supporting his candidacy released an advertisement that linked the Jewish state to the high cost of groceries in the United States.
Stevens' decision to endorse a Republican, particularly in a closely contested race, marks a significant shift. Her public statements suggest a deep disagreement with El-Sayed's stance on foreign policy and national security issues, particularly concerning Israel. The endorsement came shortly before the election, adding a late twist to the Michigan Senate contest.
Stevens' comments and subsequent endorsement have drawn attention to the intra-party dynamics and policy debates within the Democratic party, particularly regarding foreign relations and the Middle East.