Haley Stevens defends endorsement switch to Republican Mike Rogers over Democrat Abdul El-Sayed

A prominent Michigan Democrat who switched her endorsement to the Republican candidate in the final days of the vital Senate race has defended her decision, saying simply: "I changed my mind".

Haley Stevens defends endorsement switch to Republican Mike Rogers over Democrat Abdul El-Sayed

TL;DR

  • Haley Stevens, a Michigan Democrat, withdrew her endorsement from fellow Democrat Abdul El-Sayed and gave it to Republican Mike Rogers.
  • Stevens cited changing her mind and not feeling welcome in El-Sayed's campaign as reasons for her switch.
  • The decision has drawn strong criticism from Democratic leaders, including Chuck Schumer, who called it a "despicable betrayal".
  • The Michigan Senate race is considered vital for Democrats' hopes of gaining control of Congress.
  • Tensions between Stevens and El-Sayed have included disagreements over US support for Israel and campaign advertising.
  • El-Sayed, who could be the first Muslim elected to the US Senate, has faced attacks from Rogers and President Trump.