Stabenow Endorses Stevens in Democratic Senate Primary Race
Former Sen. Debbie Stabenow backs Birmingham congresswoman’s Senate bid, citing her Michigan roots and legislative track record.
DETROIT, MICHIGAN — Former U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow announced Wednesday her endorsement of U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate, delivering a boost to the Birmingham congresswoman’s campaign.
Stabenow, who served as Michigan’s senator for nearly 25 years before retiring, praised Stevens’ Michigan roots and legislative track record in her endorsement statement.
“It was the honor of my lifetime to suit up every day and fight for Michigan as your US senator,” Stabenow said in a statement circulated by Stevens’ campaign. “Today, I’m endorsing Congresswoman Haley Stevens to be our next senator, because I know she’ll do the same thing. Haley was born and raised in Michigan.”
Partnership Spans Years
The endorsement highlights a working relationship that predates Stevens’ congressional service. Stabenow noted that Stevens served as a key partner even before joining Congress, when Stevens worked as President Barack Obama’s chief of staff for the auto rescue plan during his first term.
“Haley has the track record and the Michigan grit to lower costs and get things done for Michigan families,” Stabenow said. “Equally important, I know she can beat Mike Rogers in the general election. The stakes have never been higher, and Haley Stevens is the right person at the right time for Michigan.”
Stevens Responds to Endorsement
Stevens expressed gratitude for Stabenow’s support, emphasizing the former senator’s legislative accomplishments. “Throughout our state’s history, there have been few greater champions for Michigan than my friend Debbie Stabenow,” Stevens said in a statement.
“She fought for Michigan manufacturing, protected our Great Lakes and clean water, stood up for our farmers, and took on tough fights–and won for Michigan,” Stevens continued. “Senator Stabenow knows what it takes to win in Michigan and deliver for Michigan, and I’ll continue the incredible work she did for our state in the Senate. I’m honored and humbled to have her on my side in this campaign.”
Primary Competition Ahead
Stevens faces competition in the Democratic primary from state Sen. Mallory McMorrow of Royal Oak and former Wayne County health official Abdul El-Sayed. Stabenow described Stevens as “Michigan through and through” in her endorsement.
The endorsement comes as Stevens seeks to build momentum in her bid for the Senate seat. Stabenow’s backing carries weight given her lengthy tenure representing Michigan and her role in key legislative battles affecting the state.
Stevens’ campaign emphasized her experience in both federal government and Congress as qualifications for the Senate race. Her work on the auto rescue plan during the Obama administration demonstrates her involvement in Michigan economic issues.
