Democratic divisions shake up pivotal Michigan Senate race as congresswoman breaks ranks

In the ongoing Democratic party infighting, a Michigan congresswoman defied her party's leadership by endorsing the Republican candidate in the state's crucial US Senate race. Representative Haley Stevens, who lost a tough primary to left-wing progressive candidate Abdul El-Sayed in August, announced her support for Republican Mike Rogers two days before the November 3 midterm election.

The congresswoman explained that Abdul El-Sayed had explicitly stated she was not welcome in his campaign, citing the election's closeness as a reason for her endorsement.

With Democrats aiming to take control of both chambers of Congress in the upcoming midterms, the Michigan Senate race is seen as a pivotal battleground that could potentially swing the Senate majority. Stevens' surprising endorsement highlights internal divisions within the Democratic Party, as left-wing candidates often clash with the party's establishment on various issues.

El-Sayed, a rising national profile candidate, criticized the US alliance with Israel and has called for an end to arms sales to that country. On Sunday, he expressed indifference towards Stevens' endorsement, focusing instead on the policies and not the politics.

The reaction to Stevens' endorsement from Democrats was swift and vehement. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer labeled her move a "despicable betrayal", while the chairman of the Michigan Democrats’ black caucus called her a "sell-out" who has strayed from her purpose. Should El-Sayed win the election, he would become the first Muslim member of the US Senate.

President Donald Trump praised Stevens for her "bravery," claiming that few people are willing to speak out in his support. Currently, most polls indicate El-Sayed holds a narrow lead over Rogers ahead of election day.