In a dramatic twist just ahead of the election, U.S. Representative Haley Stevens (D-MI) made a surprising appearance with Republican Senate hopeful Mike Rogers at a Detroit church, announcing her endorsement of him. This is a notable shift from her previous support of El-Sayed.
This revelation comes just two days before the election, amid a fallout between Stevens and Democratic nominee Abdul El-Sayed, who had disinvited her from campaign activities after a bitter disagreement.
Stevens and Rogers attended a “family and friends day” service at Perfecting Church alongside their partners. Their public showing marks a significant moment just before the election.
The church appearance followed the cancellation of a joint get-out-the-vote event featuring Stevens, El-Sayed, and Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC), which was aimed at demonstrating party unity.
I am endorsing Mike Rogers for the United States Senate today. pic.twitter.com/pQgfSBuhOJ
— Haley Stevens (@HaleyforMI) November 1, 2026
A dispute over an advertisement from Rebellion PAC, an external group, had created tensions that ultimately led to the event’s cancellation. The controversial ad connected U.S. assistance to Israel with rising grocery prices in Michigan.
Stevens branded the advertisement as antisemitic and pushed El-Sayed to distance himself from its messaging. In response, El-Sayed clarified that the ad was not affiliated with his campaign but requested Stevens avoid further campaign events to minimize distractions.
Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI) advised Stevens against joining the planned appearance, referring to the situation as a significant distraction that was upsetting for the church’s bishop.
After initially endorsing El-Sayed, Stevens noted division within her household regarding the election, especially as her fiancé, Jason Turkish, indicated he would support Rogers due to concerns about El-Sayed’s handling of issues pertinent to the Jewish community.
Stevens expressed on CNN that while she favored El-Sayed’s success, she was aware of undecided voters who were troubled by the advertising campaign.
During the church service, Stevens spoke on economic policies impacting black-owned businesses, asserting that Rogers would support such initiatives, thereby aligning with her vision.
Haley Stevens was originally supposed to campaign with Abdul El-Sayed today.
Now, she's attending a church service with Mike Rogers. pic.twitter.com/VQhtbe7k15
— Greg Price (@greg_price11) November 1, 2026
In the days leading to the election, public disagreements between Stevens and El-Sayed grew. Stevens criticized El-Sayed’s campaign, suggesting he could begin addressing issues by avoiding negative associations with Israel.
She emphasized the need for a clear condemnation of the Rebellion PAC ad and expressed mixed feelings about El-Sayed’s disclaimer on it. Stevens urged voters to head to the polls in her closing statement.
In a retort, El-Sayed accused Stevens of attempting to reignite primary disputes, which resulted in her official disinvitation from his campaign events.
This unexpected endorsement could play a crucial role in a highly competitive Senate race, where some polls indicate El-Sayed leads Rogers by a narrow margin.
As the race heats up, the outcome remains pivotal for the Senate’s balance of power.
