Sparks fly as Abdul El-Sayed and Mike Rogers face off in first Michigan Senate debate
Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed and Republican Mike Rogers engaged in a contentious first debate for Michigan's open Senate seat. The candidates clashed over economic policies, including gas taxes and tariffs, while trading personal attacks regarding their respective properties.
Why it matters
The Michigan Senate race is a pivotal contest that could determine which party gains control of the U.S. Senate.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The two candidates battling for Michigan’s open Senate seat tangled here Thursday over the war in Iran, gas prices and tariffs in a debate that often veered into mean-spirited sniping. Democrat Abdul El-Sayed sought to portray his Republican rival, former Rep. Mike Rogers, as a weak-willed loyalist to President Donald Trump who has recently changed his positions on certain issues out of political necessity. Rogers tried to frame El-Sayed as a “con man” who is making promises he cannot pay for without raising taxes or other costs. Each repeatedly taunted the other over real estate — a home Rogers has in Florida and property El-Sayed’s wife owns in the United Arab Emirates. The debate, hosted by NBC affiliate WOOD of Grand Rapids, became so punchy at times that moderator Rick Albin pleaded for the candidates to rein in their attacks.
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