He’s got a good chance of winning.
Former President Donald Trump has entered the Michigan Senate race by endorsing former Representative Mike Rogers in the Republican primary. Trump praised Rogers’ commitment to key issues like border security, economic growth, and defending the Second Amendment, stating his “Complete and Total Endorsement.” Rogers, a former critic turned ally, has become a leading contender in the August primary, benefiting from support from the National Republican Senatorial Campaign Committee and the withdrawal of former Detroit Police Chief James Craig from the race.
Rogers’ alliance with Trump marks a significant shift from his previous stance. A year ago, Rogers was considering a long-shot bid for the Republican presidential nomination and expressed doubts about the viability of Trumpism for Michigan Republicans following midterm losses. However, since launching his Senate campaign, Rogers has openly praised Trump and endorsed him in January. The primary also includes former congressmen Justin Amash and Peter Meijer, both of whom voted to impeach Trump, alongside other contenders.
On the Democratic side, Representative Elissa Slotkin has emerged as a prominent contender. With Debbie Stabenow not seeking re-election and Michigan being a swing state in recent presidential elections, the Senate race is expected to be highly competitive. Trump’s endorsement has added fuel to the already intense primary, with the Michigan Democratic Party highlighting the increasing acrimony among Republican contenders.
Beyond Michigan, Trump’s endorsements have influenced other key Senate races, including Ohio’s and Montana’s, where his preferred candidates are navigating primary challenges amidst heightened political tensions. In Ohio, Trump backs Bernie Moreno in a GOP primary, while in Montana, his endorsement of Tim Sheehy led to Rep. Matt Rosendale exiting what was anticipated to be a contentious Republican primary. Trump’s involvement underscores the significance of his influence in shaping Republican primaries and the broader political landscape.
