A viral campaign pep talk delivered by U.S. Representative Haley Stevens, a Democratic candidate for Michigan's open Senate seat, has drawn renewed attention to a previous on-floor incident in 2020 where she wore pink latex gloves and was repeatedly ruled out of order.
During a March 2020 House floor speech concerning the COVID-19 pandemic, Stevens, who was then a freshman congresswoman, spoke about the fears of Americans and urged support for doctors and nurses. She donned bright pink latex gloves, stating, "I wear these latex gloves to tell every American to not be afraid." As her time expired, the Speaker Pro Tempore attempted to gavel her down multiple times, but Stevens continued her remarks. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer eventually yielded her an additional 30 seconds, after which she was again repeatedly interrupted and declared out of order.
The recent campaign speech, in which Stevens told supporters she would bring "a little bit of enthusiasm, a little bit of energy and a little bit of stick-it-to-them … because that’s the Michigan way," has sparked online commentary. Critics have questioned her speaking style and accents in campaign ads compared to past appearances.
The Michigan Senate primary is scheduled for three weeks from the recent campaign events. Stevens is facing Democratic challenger Abdul El-Sayed. The primary has gained national attention as it features El-Sayed, who advocates for progressive stances on issues like healthcare, against Stevens, who is considered an establishment figure with the backing of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
Another Democratic candidate, Mallory McMorrow, withdrew from the race earlier this month, leaving Stevens and El-Sayed as the prominent contenders for the nomination. Retiring Senator Gary Peters, D-Mich., has endorsed Stevens in the primary contest.