Abdul El-Sayed wins Michigan Senate primary, jolting Democrats
Why it matters: The left-wing victory sets up a high-stakes November race against Republican Mike Rogers in a swing state.
Abdul El-Sayed won Michigan’s Democratic primary for the US Senate, delivering a setback to party leaders who had backed Rep. Haley Stevens and elevating a left-wing contender in one of November’s most consequential races. El-Sayed, a former Michigan health official and the son of Egyptian immigrants, built his campaign around government-backed health insurance, lower drug costs, higher taxes on the wealthy and campaign finance reform. He had support from Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Stevens entered the race with establishment support and heavy outside spending, including backing tied to Aipac. El-Sayed now faces former Republican Rep. Mike Rogers in a general election contest that could help decide Senate control.