Democrat Haley Stevens: Backing Abdul El-Sayed would be 'living a lie'

Key Points:

• Democratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens unexpectedly withdrew her endorsement of former primary rival Abdul El-Sayed and instead backed Republican Mike Rogers just two days before Michigan's crucial Senate election, citing El-Sayed's refusal to denounce an antisemitic ad and his "uncompromising" behavior.
• Stevens criticized El-Sayed's stance on Israel, highlighting his past comments labeling Israel a rogue state and accusing it of genocide in Gaza, which clashed with her pro-Israel views and contributed to her decision to support Rogers.
• The endorsement switch sparked strong backlash from Democratic leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who condemned Stevens' move as a betrayal and isolated her from the party, with Michigan Democrats disavowing her membership.
• Stevens acknowledged the personal and professional fallout, including staff resignations and criticism from colleagues, but emphasized that her decision was based on her principles and that she feels at peace despite the controversy.
• Abdul El-Sayed dismissed the impact of Stevens' endorsement shift, focusing on voter turnout and campaign fundraising, while Stevens denied claims that her fiance influenced her decision and rejected suggestions about her emotional stability.