Michigan Democrat Mallory McMorrow has halted her campaign for the U.S. Senate, reshaping the party’s nomination contest just weeks before the primary. The decision was announced via social media, though she offered no explanation for her sudden choice. Her withdrawal comes amid pressure from party members urging her to simplify the race into a contest between U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens and Abdul El-Sayed, a favorite among progressives.

The vacant Senate seat belongs to retiring Democratic Sen. Gary Peters. Retaining this seat is crucial for Democrats in their bid to regain Senate control during the upcoming midterms. Losing ground could hinder their fight to control the chamber over the next two years of Donald Trump’s presidency.

McMorrow expressed her gratitude while announcing her decision. She thanked volunteers, donors, and her campaign staff for building a grassroots effort without corporate PAC contributions. She said, “Today, I’m announcing that I am suspending my campaign for United States Senate. And I’m doing it with a deep, deep sense of gratitude. For our thousands of volunteers, for everyone who donated what you could — building a campaign with zero corporate PAC dollars. For my staff, who built this team up from nothing. I thank you.”

The upcoming primary on August 4 has polarized Democrats ideologically. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer supports Stevens, while El-Sayed has backing from figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Despite El-Sayed’s progressive stance, some establishment Democrats worry that his policies could harm the party’s chances in the general election.

McMorrow’s exit could facilitate the establishment’s efforts to defeat El-Sayed. The Democratic primary victor is set to challenge Republican Mike Rogers, who previously lost to Sen. Elissa Slotkin in 2024.