Abdul El-Sayed's campaign announced it raised more than $2.4 million in a single day, setting a fundraising record for the Michigan Senate race in its final stretch. The campaign reported the surge came from over 65,000 donors, with an average contribution of $36.74, and nearly 30,000 first-time donors.
The fundraising surge followed an endorsement of Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers by Democratic Representative Haley Stevens. Stevens, who was the more moderate candidate in her primary against El-Sayed earlier this year, stated she could not support El-Sayed, citing his backing from streamer Hasan Piker. Stevens announced her endorsement of Rogers in a video posted on X, saying, "I'm endorsing Mike Rogers for the United States Senate today."
Stevens' decision drew immediate criticism from national and state Democratic leaders. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called it "a despicable betrayal," and Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel stated she had "abandoned everything she claims to care about."
El-Sayed, in response to the endorsement, told reporters that he was focused on voters and policy and did not dwell on Stevens or Rogers. His campaign characterized the fundraising as a sign of strong momentum.
El-Sayed has also sought to distance himself from Piker, who has faced scrutiny for controversial statements, including antisemitic remarks. Stevens previously urged El-Sayed to disavow Piker's affiliation during the primary.
