Former Michigan Republican Party Co-Chairman Bernadette Smith has submitted paperwork to the Federal Election Commission, signaling a potential Senate bid. This development comes as Trump-endorsed Mike Rogers contemplates competing for the state’s open Senate seat.
If Smith—who recently stepped down as co-chair—decides to officially announce her candidacy, she would enter a Republican primary already featuring President Donald Trump, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and former U.S. Representative Mike Rogers, who is supported by the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC).
The open Senate seat in Michigan, alongside a Democratic-held seat in New Hampshire, are significant targets for the NRSC in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections, as the party aims to safeguard and possibly enhance its current 53-47 majority in the Senate.
Rogers, who secured the 2024 Republican Senate nomination in Michigan but lost to Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin last November, plans to run again for the seat being vacated by long-serving Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow, who is retiring.
He recently expressed confidence in his campaign, especially after receiving Trump’s endorsement in July, stating, “With Mr. Trump’s endorsement, it’s like a done deal. And that means we’re just going to work to win the election against the Democrats in November 2026.”
Interestingly, Trump’s backing doesn’t seem to deter Smith from starting her campaign. However, many in political circles regard her as a strong candidate, albeit one who may face challenges getting on the ballot in Michigan.
Some skepticism surrounds her candidacy; for instance, Dennis Lennox, a seasoned Michigan Republican consultant, remarked, “It’s more likely that pigs are flying than it is for Bernadette Smith to qualify for the ballot or somehow win Michigan.”
Her past could be a potential hurdle, as Smith has a criminal history, having appealed a felony charge of welfare fraud and facing a conviction a decade ago for a serious car accident that injured a child.
As of now, Fox News has sought comment from Smith but has not yet received a response.
