Biden’s impact on Michigan Senate race declared a toss up by Cook Political Report.
The Senate race in Michigan has taken a significant turn as a top nonpartisan political handicapper has moved it to a “Toss Up” status. The Cook Political Report’s decision to change the Senate race from “Lean Democratic” to “Toss Up” has put Senate Democrats at risk of losing their majority in the upcoming Congress.
Currently held by Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., who is retiring after her term ends, the seat has become highly competitive due to various factors. The loss of the Democrats’ incumbent advantage combined with former President Trump’s strong performance in the swing state has made the race even more unpredictable.
The state’s Senate primaries are approaching fast, scheduled for Aug. 6, allowing only a few months for the general election campaigns to unfold. Among the Democratic contenders, Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., is considered the frontrunner for the nomination. Slotkin, known for flipping a Republican district in the state when she was elected to the House, will be facing actor Hill Harper in the primary. While Harper may be seen as an underdog, he has been actively engaging with Michigan’s large Arab population and drawing contrasts with Slotkin, especially on issues such as the conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas.
On the Republican side, former Rep. Mike Rogers is leading the pack and has received an endorsement from Trump. However, he still faces stiff competition from businessman Sandy Pensler and former Rep. Justin Amash in the primary.
In explaining the rationale behind the change in rating, analyst Jessica Taylor highlighted concerns among Democrats following President Biden’s recent debate performance. The focus has shifted from the likelihood of Biden winning reelection to the potential impact he could have on down-ballot Democrats in races across the country.
