Trump Backs Mike Rogers in Michigan Senate Race

On Thursday evening, former President Donald Trump endorsed ex-Michigan Republican Senator Mike Rogers, significantly shaking up the landscape of one of the most scrutinized Senate races for the upcoming midterms.

Rogers, who was facing a potentially tough challenge earlier this week, now seems set for the general election with a united Republican party rallying behind him following Trump’s endorsement. Michigan Congressman Bill Huizenga had been contemplating a run but has seemingly backed off, possibly to avoid a divisive primary that could weaken the party’s chance of winning. Reports suggest that Trump told Huizenga that his support would not extend to him if he opted into the Republican primary.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed his confidence in Rogers, stating, “From the US Army to Congress, Mike will distinguish and serve our country and bring the same fighting spirit to the US Senate.”

Senate Republicans are keen on the Michigan race as a prime opportunity to expand their majority, which currently stands at 53 seats. This comes after Democratic Senator Gary Peters announced he wouldn’t be seeking re-election following Trump’s victory in the state last November, where he won by about 80,000 votes.

Rogers previously came close to winning a Senate seat, losing to Democrat Elissa Slotkin by a mere 20,000 votes last year. Notably, Trump also endorsed Rogers during the 2024 campaign cycle.

Huizenga’s decision to step away is a relief for national Republican groups, allowing them to back Rogers without the threat of an internal conflict. The backing from Trump could bolster Rogers’ appeal, particularly among voters who supported Trump but may not be inclined to back other candidates.

Advising Rogers’ Senate campaign is Chris Lacivita, who played a key role in Trump’s 2024 presidential bid.

Additionally, the Senate Republican Campaign Committee, led by Senate Majority Leader John Tune and Republican Representatives Jack Bergman and Tim Walberg, are also supporting Rogers.

NRSC Chairman Tim Scott emphasized the unity among Republicans, stating, “President Trump is all in the microphone. I’m all in the microphone. All Republicans are all in the microphone. All Michigan is all in the microphone. Mike Rogers is the leader in increasing the Senate majority in 2026.”

Meanwhile, Democrats are engaged in a fierce four-way primary with no clear frontrunner. Recent polling indicates Michigan Democrat Hailey Stevens and former health official Abdul El-Sayed are neck and neck, with Stevens at 24% and El-Sayed at 22%. Senator Mallory McMorrow trails with 11%, and former House Speaker Joe Tate garnered just 1%.

Expressing gratitude for Trump’s endorsement, Rogers stated, “For 32 years, Michigan’s left leaders have failed their families and our state. This is the time for a voice in the Senate that represents the true values of Michigan.”

Trump also endorsed Huizenga’s reelection bid on Thursday, though the Congressman has not yet announced if he plans to run for a ninth term.