Detroit, MI – Former congressman and former FBI agent Mike Rogers, the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate, held a campaign event Thursday at a residence in a western Detroit neighborhood. Rogers introduced a new outreach effort called “Democrats for Mike Rogers,” aimed at voters who say the Democratic nominee, Dr. Abdul El‑Sayed, does not represent their values.
Appeal to voters who feel left behind
Rogers told the assembled crowd, “I’m not asking you to become a Republican. I’m asking for the opportunity to earn your trust. Our door is open.” He highlighted El‑Sayed’s past comments and policy positions that some Democrats find unsettling, positioning himself as a candidate who can bridge the partisan divide.
One attendee, identified only as Chelsea from West Bloomfield, said she has voted for Democratic presidents and candidates for years but feels the current nominee does not align with the world she wants for her children. “Sometimes the election calls for us to look at something bigger than our party lines,” she said.
Polling shows a tight race
Recent surveys suggest the contest remains within the margin of error. An AARP poll placed the candidates neck‑and‑neck, while a Fox News poll conducted Aug. 6‑10 gave Rogers a four‑point edge, largely due to strong party unity among Republicans.
Among self‑identified Democrats, 91% said they would support El‑Sayed, though support dropped to 69% among non‑Democratic Socialists of America voters. Rogers emphasized that even lifelong Democrats who have never voted for a Republican might consider his candidacy.
Faith leaders weigh in
Rabbi Asher Lopatin of Huntington Woods attended the event and expressed concerns about El‑Sayed’s stance on Israel and his criticism of immigration enforcement. “We cannot let someone like Abdul El‑Sayed get into the Senate,” the rabbi said, noting that some Jewish voters who normally vote Democratic are reconsidering their choices.
Rogers also referenced reports of two University of Michigan students feeling unsafe on campus, suggesting that political rhetoric could affect public safety.
El‑Sayed’s campaign responds
El‑Sayed’s campaign countered that Rogers is closely tied to former President Donald Trump and would advance policies that raise gas prices and fund foreign wars. Spokesperson Cole Wozniak said El‑Sayed is the only candidate with a coalition capable of winning and pledging to reduce money in politics.
El‑Sayed, an epidemiologist and former Wayne County health director, would become the nation’s first Muslim senator if elected. His platform includes Medicare‑for‑All, abolishing ICE, and a strong critique of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
What’s next
With the midterm election looming, both campaigns are intensifying outreach to voters who feel alienated by their party’s nominee. Rogers’ strategy centers on appealing to personal values and community safety, while El‑Sayed emphasizes progressive policy proposals and a commitment to combat antisemitism.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
