In Michigan Senate race, Trump’s softer China tone gives candidates room to look elsewhere

As Mike Rogers stands for re-election to the US Senate in Michigan, he finds himself with more room to focus on other issues due to President Donald Trump's softer stance towards China. Rogers, who narrowly lost to Democrat Elissa Slotkin in 2022, previously made opposition to Chinese investment a major theme of his campaign. However, Trump's less confrontational approach towards Beijing has allowed candidates to shift their attention to more immediate concerns, such as energy costs, trade disputes with Canada, and the ongoing war with Iran.

A review of advertisements found no mention of China in the campaigns of Rogers and his opponent, Abdul El-Sayed, despite both candidates still advocating protection against Chinese carmakers. Both candidates, who are competing for the seat vacated by retiring Democratic Senator Gary Peters, acknowledge that China remains a significant industrial competitor in Michigan, the historic heart of American carmaking.

Their advertising campaigns focus on issues that set them apart and can persuade voters, such as the war in Iran and tariffs on Canada, while still emphasizing their commitment to protecting the car industry in the state.