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DETROIT — The Democratic Party’s progressive faction aimed for a significant win Tuesday in Michigan’s Senate primary. But victory remains elusive as the race’s winner was undecided early Wednesday.
In Michigan, Abdul El-Sayed, a former Wayne County Health Department director, faced Rep. Haley Stevens in a tight contest. El-Sayed, a left-wing candidate, held a narrow lead, backed by progressive leaders like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Stevens, supported by establishment leaders including Sen. Chuck Schumer, also delivered an optimistic update as votes were still being counted.
Rep. Stevens Shares Election Night Update:
I know it’s been a long night because that’s the Michigan way. But I want to give you all an update… We knew that this was going to be a close race, and that’s exactly what we’ve got.
The race to replace retiring Sen. Gary Peters is crucial for Democrats as they strive to keep their Senate seat amid a dozen races across the U.S. that may decide control of the Senate. El-Sayed seeks to make history as the first Muslim senator, with a campaign promoting “Medicare-for-all,” calling to abolish ICE, and criticizing Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Meanwhile, the establishment triumphed in Missouri, where Rep. Wesley Bell defeated Cori Bush, a former “Squad” member, despite the backing of Democratic Socialists of America.
Takeaways from Primary Night:
- Still Awaiting Results: El-Sayed and Stevens wait for more votes in Michigan’s primary.
- Trump’s Influence Unyielding: In Michigan and Kansas, Trump-backed candidates won gubernatorial nominations.
- Establishment’s Wins: Bell in Missouri overcame Bush, who criticized his reliance on outside funds.
In Michigan’s 7th Congressional District, progressive William Lawrence, co-founder of the Sunrise Movement, secured a nomination against moderates. He will face GOP Rep. Tom Barrett in the general election.
Statewide, Michigan’s Jocelyn Benson and Dana Nessel, both less aligned with the far-left, won nominations, with Benson facing John James for governor.
Republican Primaries and Trump’s Endorsements:
Trump’s influence remained strong as Rep. John James secured Michigan’s GOP gubernatorial nomination against Perry Johnson. In Kansas, Trump-endorsed Ty Masterson emerged from a field of candidates.
The GOP aims to flip seats with term-limited Democratic governors, like Laura Kelly in Kansas, providing opportunities. The evolving party dynamics suggest a complicated electoral landscape.
Fox News’ Matthew Donnell and Luke Trevisan contributed to this report.
