Former Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to campaign in Michigan next week alongside Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed, marking a significant push to unify the party in a critical battleground state. This joint appearance follows multiple conversations between Harris and El-Sayed since she endorsed the progressive Democrat after his primary victory.
Harris and El-Sayed, a doctor and former head of health departments in Detroit and Wayne County, will attend a roundtable discussion focused on Black maternal health on Tuesday. This event is part of the Democratic Party's broader strategy to mobilize voters and secure control of the Senate in the upcoming November elections.
"Vice President Harris looks forward to returning to Michigan to help turn out the vote in this critical state," stated Eduardo Negrón, Harris' spokesperson. "It is critical we flip the Senate so we can bring down prices and stand up to Donald Trump’s corruption."
The race for the Michigan Senate seat is considered pivotal for Democrats. The party needs to flip four Republican-held seats to gain a majority, and El-Sayed's victory is seen as essential if they are to retain control. The incumbent, Democrat Gary Peters, currently holds the seat, making its retention a key objective for the party.
El-Sayed faces Republican Mike Rogers, a former U.S. representative. Republicans have characterized El-Sayed as a "radical" liberal who has influenced the Democratic Party. The primary contest between El-Sayed and Rep. Haley Stevens highlighted internal party divisions, particularly concerning U.S. support for Israel. Earlier this year, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg urged unity behind Democratic candidates in Detroit.
Harris, who is also a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential race, will also meet with local elected officials and Rev. Wendell Anthony, president of the NAACP’s Detroit branch, during her visit to Michigan, according to her spokesperson.