Trump Backs Rogers in Michigan Senate Race
On Thursday evening, former President Donald Trump endorsed Mike Rogers, a former Republican senator from Michigan, effectively narrowing down the field of candidates in what is anticipated to be a closely watched Senate race in 2026.
With Trump’s backing, Rogers is set to cruise into the general election, garnering solid support from the Republican party, especially after a potential threat from Republican Michigan Rep. Bill Huizenga. Huizenga was considering running against Rogers but opted out after Trump indicated that he would not support him if he entered the primary.
Trump praised Rogers, stating on social media, “From the US Army to Congress, Mike will distinguish and serve our country while bringing the same fighting spirit to the US Senate.”
The Senate Republicans view this open seat in Michigan as a prime opportunity to expand their majority, currently at 53 seats, during the upcoming midterms. Notably, Democratic Michigan Senator Gary Peters chose not to run for re-election, especially after his victory was by a slim margin of around 80,000 votes last November.
Rogers nearly clinched a Senate seat last November, losing to Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin by just 20,000 votes. Trump had previously endorsed Rogers during the 2024 campaign cycle. Huizenga’s exit from the race is a relief for national Republican strategists, allowing them to focus their efforts on supporting Rogers without a divisive primary battle.
Trump’s support could also help Rogers connect with voters who supported him in the past but may not vote for down-ballot candidates. Chris Lacivita, who co-chaired Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, is now advising Rogers in his Senate run.
Rogers also enjoys backing from the Senate Republican Campaign Committee and several prominent figures within the party, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Michigan Rep. Tim Wahlberg.
“President Trump is fully committed. I’m fully committed. All Republicans are united,” stated NRSC Chairman Tim Scott. “Mike Rogers is key to increasing our Senate majority in 2026.”
As Republicans consolidate support behind Rogers, Democrats face a messy four-way primary with no clear leader. According to recent polls, Michigan Democrat Hailey Stevens leads with 24%, followed closely by former public health official Abdul El-Sayed at 22%. Meanwhile, Democratic Senator Mallory McMorrow has only 11%, and former Michigan House Speaker Joe Tate is trailing with just 1%.
“We are incredibly thankful for President Trump’s strong backing,” Rogers noted in a statement. “For 32 years, Michigan’s leaders on the left have failed their families. It’s time for a voice in the Senate that truly reflects Michigan’s values.”
In addition, Trump endorsed Huizenga’s re-election bid on Thursday, although Huizenga has yet to decide if he will run for a ninth term.
