Michigan Senate Race Shifts as Mallory McMorrow Suspends Campaign
"The money being spent here is grotesque."
— Mallory McMorrow, on her departure from the race.
DETROIT — Michigan Democrat Mallory McMorrow suspended her U.S. Senate campaign on Sunday, narrowing the Democratic primary field to state Rep. Haley Stevens and former state health director Abdul El-Sayed.
The primary election is scheduled for August 6, 2024.
Key Developments
McMorrow's decision comes with significant implications:
- Ballots already mailed: Her withdrawal occurred after absentee ballots had been distributed to voters across the state.
- Outside influence cited: McMorrow pointed specifically to unprecedented outside spending by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) supporting Stevens as a major factor in her decision.
- No endorsement: McMorrow has not backed either remaining candidate.
Statements from the Candidates
McMorrow, in a video and written statement, expressed deep gratitude to her supporters while lamenting the state of the contest.
"I am so proud of what we built, but the reality is that a shadowy network of dark money is working to buy this seat."
El-Sayed quickly pivoted to appeal to McMorrow's base, criticizing "party insiders" and framing his campaign as the anti-establishment choice.
Stevens positioned herself as the electable option, stating she is the strongest Democrat to defeat Republican Mike Rogers in the general election.
Endorsements Shape the Race
The contest is now defined by a clear divide in national support:
- Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer has endorsed Stevens.
- Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel endorsed Stevens shortly after McMorrow's withdrawal.
- Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have endorsed El-Sayed.
What’s Next
The seat is currently held by retiring Democratic Sen. Gary Peters. The winner of the August primary is expected to face Republican Mike Rogers in the November general election, a race widely viewed as a key battleground for control of the U.S. Senate.