Canvassers for U.S. Senate candidate Mike Rogers are working hard to convince disillusioned Republicans in Detroit’s wealthy suburbs to back other GOP candidates for the upcoming election. Oakland County, just north of Detroit, has seen a shift towards Democrats in recent elections, making it crucial for Rogers to win back voters here to secure a victory in the Senate race against Democratic opponent Rep. Elissa Slotkin. The race in Michigan is considered pivotal as control of the Senate hangs in the balance, with Democrats defending more seats this year.
Rogers, a former U.S. House member, is confident in his ground game and ability to flip the Senate seat held by Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow for over two decades. However, Slotkin, who is well-funded and has a strong track record, poses a challenge to Rogers’ campaign. With a fundraising advantage and support from national Democratic groups, Slotkin has a head start in defining her candidacy. The outcome of the Senate race may also be influenced by how the presidential candidates perform in Michigan, with concerns about Vice President Kamala Harris’ standing in the state.
Rogers faces the task of holding together a fractured GOP coalition, which could play a significant role in determining the outcome of the race. Despite recent influxes of funding from outside sources, Rogers must work to define his candidacy and narrow the gap with Slotkin. Both candidates are looking to appeal to voters in key areas of Michigan, especially in Oakland County where suburban women are a crucial demographic. The county, once a Republican stronghold, saw a shift towards Democrats in recent elections, making it a battleground for both campaigns.
Slotkin continues to focus on reproductive rights as a key issue in her campaign, especially in Oakland County where a ballot proposal enshrining abortion rights passed by a significant margin. Rogers, on the other hand, considers the issue a nonissue after the 2022 vote and has stated he would not support a federal ban on abortion. Slotkin’s approach of engaging with different types of voters, similar to her successful strategy in a competitive House district, could work in her favor in the Senate race. However, divisions within the Democratic Party over foreign policy, particularly in metro Detroit with a large Arab American population, could impact Slotkin’s campaign.
As the Senate race heats up in Michigan, both Rogers and Slotkin are working tirelessly to secure support from key demographics and communities. While Slotkin’s strong fundraising and established track record pose a challenge to Rogers, the outcome of the race may ultimately depend on how each candidate navigates the complex political landscape in the state. With control of the Senate at stake, the Michigan race is being closely watched as Republicans and Democrats vie for victory in this critical election.
