Delaware Senator Chris Coons threw his weight behind Michigan Representative Haley Stevens in the state's Democratic Senate primary on Monday, less than three months before voters head to the polls. Coons, a prominent voice on foreign policy and manufacturing, praised Stevens as a tough fighter for working families and good-paying jobs.
In a video released by Stevens's campaign, Coons emphasized their personal connection and shared priorities. "I know Haley, I've spent time with her, traveled with her, campaigned with her," Coons said. "She is tough, she's a fighter, she understands the importance of good-paying manufacturing jobs and she'll stand up for Michiganders—for better healthcare, a better quality of life, a better environment, and better jobs for our future."
Stevens, a four-term congresswoman, is one of three Democrats vying for the nomination to succeed retiring Senator Gary Peters. Her opponents include state Senator Mallory McMorrow and Abdul El-Sayed, former director of Wayne County's health department. The winner will likely face former Representative Mike Rogers, the Republican frontrunner, in the general election.
Coons argued that Stevens is the party's strongest candidate to hold Peters's seat. "She is our best chance to keep this seat in Democratic hands and to serve with distinction," he said. Stevens welcomed the endorsement, calling Coons a friend and a champion for American manufacturing and working families.
The primary race remains fluid. A Mitchell Research and Communications survey earlier this month showed El-Sayed leading with 28% support among likely Democratic primary voters, followed by Stevens at 18% and McMorrow at 17%. Nearly 40% of respondents were undecided, leaving the outcome uncertain.
El-Sayed has secured the backing of Senator Bernie Sanders, while McMorrow is endorsed by Senators Elizabeth Warren, Chris Murphy, Martin Heinrich, and Peter Welch. Stevens's endorsements include Coons, Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Ruben Gallego, and former Michigan Senator Debbie Stabenow.
General election polls show a tight race. A Glengariff Group survey from late April found Rogers leading Stevens by 2.3 points and McMorrow by 2.1 points, both within the margin of error. Against El-Sayed, Rogers's lead widened to 4.9 points, with over 14% of voters undecided in each matchup.
The financial picture is similarly competitive. As of March, Stevens had $3.3 million on hand, McMorrow $3.6 million, and El-Sayed $2.5 million. Rogers's campaign reported $4.2 million in cash reserves.
Early voting in Michigan runs from July 25 to August 2, with primary day on August 4. The contest is one of several high-profile primaries this cycle, including a Kentucky primary testing President Trump's grip on the GOP and the fallout from Bill Cassidy's ouster in Louisiana.
