Michigan Democrats Eject Congresswoman Stevens

GRAND RAPIDS, MI. - Michigan Democrats expelled U.S. Representative Haley Stevens from the party on Sunday, November 1, 2026, following her endorsement of Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers. Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel announced Stevens' expulsion, stating she is no longer a member and will not be in the future.

Stevens' decision to back Rogers came two days before the November 3, 2026, election. She cited a public disagreement with her former primary rival, Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic nominee, who she claimed made her unwelcome in his campaign. El-Sayed dismissed Stevens' endorsement as a distraction. The fallout included the resignation of Stevens' chief of staff, Justin German, with other staff members expected to follow. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer characterized the endorsement as a "despicable betrayal."

Stevens previously lost to El-Sayed in the August 2026 Michigan Democratic Senate primary. El-Sayed now faces Republican nominee Mike Rogers for the Senate seat that retiring Democrat Carl Levin vacated. This race is critical for Democrats' efforts to regain Senate control and is currently considered close.

Stevens' expulsion marks a significant division within the Michigan Democratic Party as the general election approaches. U.S. Representative Rashida Tlaib, a fellow Michigan Democrat, has not publicly commented on Stevens' endorsement or expulsion.