Mike Rogers Campaign Builds Support for Senate Bid
The campaign for former Michigan Republican Rep. Mike Rogers is investing early in ground game efforts throughout the state as candidates for the 2026 Senate race work to consolidate their bases. On Monday, the Rogers Campaign announced a leadership team consisting of over 100 campaign co-chairs, aiming to mobilize support across Michigan.
Former lawmakers are strategizing to avoid significant challenges while gearing up for the general elections. Rogers, who narrowly lost to Democrat Elissa Slotkin last November by fewer than 20,000 votes, launched his campaign for the seat currently held by Sen. Gary Peters back in April. As of now, he remains the most prominent candidate in the running, bolstered by considerable backing.
The campaign has received support from several key figures, including Senate Majority Leader John Tune and Senate Majority Whip John Baraso, alongside PACs involved in Senate GOP leadership. Moreover, Rogers has brought on Chris Lacivita, a former co-manager for Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, to provide advisory support.
Rogers expressed enthusiasm about the campaign’s momentum in a statement, saying, “Our team is stronger than ever and just picking up steam. These team leaders will help us spread our message, activate volunteers, build coalitions, and get votes in every corner of the state. We couldn’t be more excited to have them on board.”
In April, Rogers noted his focus on attracting voters who may have supported Trump but didn’t cast a ballot for the Downballot candidate. He claims he performed better than other GOP contenders during the 2024 election cycle, estimating voter support around 100,000.
A recent campaign release indicated the formation of a new team of first-time volunteers, highlighting Rogers’ commitment to establishing a solid ground game.
Rogers previously mentioned his determination to avoid the pitfalls of past campaigns, acknowledging that doubts existed about their potential to win in Michigan. He asserted they proved the skeptics wrong.
Despite backing Rogers, Republican Rep. Bill Huizenga has been hesitant to jump into the race, facing pressure to remain focused on reelection rather than take on a major challenge. The White House has reportedly advised lawmakers to prioritize local races instead of entering the Senate battle.
Polls indicate that Rogers outpaces Huizenga by about 45 points in hypothetical matchups with registered voters. Additionally, a recent vote from the Detroit Chamber of Commerce shows Rogers performing better against Democratic candidates in direct contests compared to Huizenga.
Rogers, who once chaired the House Intelligence Committee, called for federal investigations into suspected Chinese espionage at the University of Michigan in a recent interview.
District 1 GOP Chair Alexandria Taylor voiced her support, stating, “Mike Rogers is all in Michigan, and we are proud to be everything for him. It’s time for Michigan’s first leaders to unite from city to suburb to help rebuild a stronger community.”
