By Fatma Younis
Democratic nominee Abdul El-Sayed has asked Congresswoman Haley Stevens to avoid his campaign events, citing a desire to limit distractions in the tight Michigan U.S. Senate race.
Public Rupture Highlights Democratic Tensions
The move exposes tensions between progressive El-Sayed and moderate Stevens, whom he defeated in a bitter primary. Stevens had endorsed El-Sayed after the August primary but avoided joint appearances. Her fiancé has campaigned for Republican Mike Rogers.
Dispute Over Outside Group Ad
Days before a planned joint appearance, Stevens demanded El-Sayed denounce an outside group's ad linking higher prices to U.S. support for Israel's war in Gaza. El-Sayed responded by accusing Stevens of relitigating the primary and noting AIPAC spending against him.
Democrats Worry About Must-Win Race
State Senator Mallory McMorrow criticized Stevens' actions, saying voters care about gas and grocery prices, not internal feuds. The race is seen as crucial for Democrats to retake the Senate.
