Michigan Senate Race Endorsement Confusion

Michigan Democratic Senator Mallory McMorrow announced on Monday that Chokwe Pitchford, a Berrien County Commissioner, had officially backed her after a mix-up regarding support in the state’s Senate race.

Haley Stevens, another Michigan Democrat, originally claimed Pitchford’s endorsement on September 2 via a post, but later local politicians chose not to confirm it. In response, McMorrow shared a video on social media highlighting Pitchford’s support for her candidacy in the Michigan Open Senate race.

“I’m proud to have you on this team, @compitchford,” McMorrow expressed in her post, encouraging him to do well.

Pitchford then shared McMorrow’s message, humorously noting, “Hey, I actually approved this time! Let’s go @mallorymcmorrow.”

In the meantime, Stevens had stated in her September 2 post that she felt honored to receive Pitchford’s approval, calling his commitment “inspiring.” However, Pitchford quickly refuted any backing of Stevens, stating he had never communicated with her team regarding her candidacy.

“I promise you, I didn’t talk to anyone or email anyone about the approval or suggest that I would be open to supporting her,” Pitchford clarified.

Stevens’ campaign later described the situation as a misunderstanding but did not elaborate on the incident.

The race to succeed retiring Democrat Senator Gary Peters is shaping up to be highly competitive in the forthcoming midterm elections. A poll conducted by the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) revealed a lack of clear frontrunners in Michigan’s Democratic contests, with 42% of significant Democratic voters still undecided.

Besides McMorrow and Stevens, other prominent candidates include former public health official Abdul el-Sayed, who has the endorsement of independent Senator Bernie Sanders from Vermont.

As of now, the Stevens campaign has not responded to requests for comment on the matter.