Sanders Critiques Stevens in Michigan Senate Race
On Friday, Senator Bernie Sanders (D-Mich.) criticized Representative Haley Stevens (D-Mich.), asserting that the upcoming Democratic Senate primary in Michigan focuses more on the struggle against the “billionaire class” than on her candidacy. Sanders made these remarks during a campaign rally in Detroit, where he appeared alongside Abdul El-Sayed, who is competing against Stevens in the primary set for August 4.
“With due respect to Haley Stevens, this election is not about her versus Abdul,” Sanders stated. “It’s really about Abdul and the billionaire class. That’s the essence of this election.”
Sanders highlighted that significant financial contributions from wealthy donors and external groups are aimed at defeating El-Sayed, underscoring his position as a leading progressive candidate this election cycle.
“The billionaire class has already poured $50 million into this race with just two weeks remaining,” he remarked. “I urge everyone across the state to pay attention to the ads flooding in. Ask yourself: why are the wealthiest people in America spending fortunes to stop Abdul El-Sayed?”
He claimed that the funding from outside groups in support of El-Sayed is dramatically lopsided, with a 12-to-1 spending ratio against him. Super PACs backing Stevens have allocated around $26.9 million for TV ads in the final stretch, while El-Sayed’s campaign has received about $2.1 million, according to AdImpact.
Internal Party Dynamics Take Center Stage
The Senate primary in Michigan is one of the most closely monitored Democratic contests of the current election cycle, reflecting the growing divide between the party’s progressive and establishment factions. El-Sayed is backed by Sanders and other notable progressives, while Stevens is supported by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and recently, retiring Senator Gary Peters.
Stevens has represented Michigan’s 11th Congressional District since 2019 and previously worked on the auto industry task force during the Obama administration.
Stevens Faces Viral Backlash
Recently, Stevens has drawn attention on the campaign trail due to several unusual speeches that went viral. One particular speech, where a critic likened her animated delivery to a classic “Saturday Night Live” skit featuring Chris Farley’s “River Van” character, led to widespread online mockery.
This scrutiny also reignited interest in a past incident from 2020 when Stevens wore pink latex gloves while speaking during a House plenary session amid the COVID-19 pandemic. She continued her remarks beyond the allocated time, calling out a “malfunction” while slamming the gavel.
The competition intensified after state Senator Mallory McMorrow ended her campaign earlier this month, with the upcoming clash between Stevens and El-Sayed seen by many Democrats as indicative of the party’s future direction. Ultimately, the victor will face Republican Mike Rogers come November.
