Rep. Debbie Dingell has criticized fellow Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens following Stevens’ surprise endorsement of Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers. Dingell’s comments underline an ongoing divide within the Democratic Party as they prepare for the upcoming elections.
In a statement posted on X, Dingell expressed concern that Stevens was diverting attention from critical issues facing Michiganders, stating, “Michiganders are talking about issues like affordability, over Congresswoman Stevens’ continued efforts to get attention.” Dingell emphasized the need for Democrats to unite, declaring, “If we are going to fight to improve the lives of working men and women in Michigan, we must stay focused on electing Democrats up and down the ballot, and that includes electing Abdul El-Sayed as Michigan’s next Senator.”
Dingell’s remarks came after she had suggested earlier that Stevens should support El-Sayed, the Democratic nominee. During an interview on MSNOW, she said, “So let me be very clear. And she represents a lot of the Jewish community, but she was very clear, and I asked her if I could say this last night that she’s a passionate Democrat. She’s going to vote for Abdul.”
The conflict deepened as Dingell revealed that she had actively advised Stevens to stay away from El-Sayed’s campaign events. “I am the one that talked to Haley, and I am the one that said, ‘This isn’t working,’” Dingell told CNN when asked about reports of El-Sayed disinviting Stevens from events.
Dingell further urged Stevens to concentrate on issues that resonate with voters, including affordability and healthcare, emphasizing the importance of remaining focused on the election goals. As the election approaches, how this rift between the two Democrats will impact their respective campaigns remains uncertain.
