The GOP Senate primary in Michigan is heating up as businessman Sandy Pensler launches a major ad blitz against front-runner Mike Rogers, who is backed by former President Trump. Pensler’s ad accuses Rogers of helping cover up key facts about the Benghazi attack in 2012 involving Ambassador to Libya Christopher Stevens and three other Americans. The ad includes a video clip of former Army Ranger Kris Paronto, who claims Rogers called soldiers liars regarding the attack. Despite the controversy, Rogers enjoys backing from the NRSC and an endorsement from Trump.
The Republican primary field in Michigan also includes former Rep. Justin Amash, with the eventual nominee likely facing Democrat Rep. Elissa Slotkin in the general election to succeed Sen. Debbie Stabenow. The Senate seat is one of several Republicans are targeting to flip from blue to red in November to regain the majority. Pensler’s second ad targets Slotkin for failing to condemn Rep. Rashida Tlaib for comments about the war between Israel and Hamas, calling both women an embarrassment to Michigan and America.
The NRSC is actively supporting Rogers in the primary, but Pensler is determined to continue running ads up to the Aug. 6 primary. NRSC spokesperson Mike Berg has stated that the committee is committed to ensuring Rogers becomes the party’s nominee, but Pensler’s team believes Michigan voters will ultimately decide the outcome. The NRSC has taken a more hands-on approach in this cycle, hoping to avoid divisive primary battles that could impact the party’s chances of winning back the Senate majority.
Pensler, a major supporter of former President Trump, is making his second bid for the Senate GOP nomination in Michigan after losing in 2018 to Rep. John James. Pensler faced criticism in his previous campaign for allegedly slamming Trump behind closed doors, leading to James’ victory. Despite the challenges, Pensler remains committed to his campaign and plans to continue running ads leading up to the primary. The NRSC, under the leadership of Sen. Steve Daines, is hoping to avoid similar primary battles that impacted the party’s performance in the 2020 election cycle.
The GOP Senate primary in Michigan has become increasingly combative as Pensler and Rogers compete for the nomination. Pensler’s ads have targeted Rogers’ role in the Benghazi investigation, accusing him of assisting in covering up key facts about the attack. With support from the NRSC and an endorsement from Trump, Rogers is considered the front-runner in the race. However, Pensler is determined to continue his campaign and run ads up to the primary to reach Michigan voters and secure the nomination. The outcome of the primary will have significant implications for the general election and the Republican party’s efforts to flip Senate seats in November.
Despite the controversy surrounding the GOP primary in Michigan, both Pensler and Rogers are focused on winning the nomination and ultimately the Senate seat in November. With Democrats aiming to retain the majority, Republicans are targeting key battleground states like Michigan to secure victories and potentially regain control of the Senate. The NRSC’s involvement in the primary reflects the party’s strategic approach to candidate selection in hopes of avoiding divisive battles that could impact their chances in the general election. Both Pensler and Rogers are committed to their campaigns and continue to actively engage with voters as the primary approaches.
