Former Representative Mike Rogers, a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate from Michigan, discussed financial challenges and international conflicts in a recent social media video. Rogers, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, highlighted the economic strain on families due to the rising costs of groceries and energy, emphasizing the urgency to reduce these expenses.
“Michigan families are struggling with the price of everyday life. Groceries cost too much. We have to bring prices down,” Rogers stated. He underscored the necessity for the Iran war to conclude swiftly to facilitate a decrease in energy costs.
Rogers also proposed measures to alleviate financial pressure, such as suspending state and federal gas taxes, amounting to 70 cents per gallon. The motor fuel tax in Michigan, applicable to both gasoline and diesel, is 52.4 cents per gallon. Federal excise taxes on gasoline are 18.3 cents per gallon, while diesel fuel incurs 24.3 cents per gallon, alongside a minor fee for preventing leaks from underground storage tanks.
Rogers suggested a diesel export embargo as a temporary solution to address rising costs. “Diesel fuels the trucks that bring groceries to this store. It fuels the tractors that grow our food. When diesel costs more, it costs more to grow it, ship it, stock it, and ultimately, buy it. Until this war is over, I’m calling for a temporary embargo on American diesel exports,” he stated.
Former President Trump endorsed Rogers firmly, asserting, “Mike Rogers has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next U.S. Senator from Michigan — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!”
The video sparked debate with Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed. In response, El-Sayed accused Rogers of supporting the Iran conflict throughout his campaign. Similarly, former Representative Justin Amash, who lost to Rogers in the 2024 GOP primary, criticized Rogers’ stance on the war via social media.
Rogers previously lost a Senate race to former Representative Elissa Slotkin in the 2024 general election. The political discourse continues as Rogers and El-Sayed compete for the Senate seat.