General

Michigan Senate Primary Results 2026: Stevens vs. El-Sayed Race Explained

ABC News · August 5, 2026

Key takeaways

Michigan Democrats picked between Haley Stevens and Abdul El-Sayed for a Senate seat that could decide Senate control; the winner faces GOP Rep. Mike Rogers in November.
Jocelyn Benson and John James will face off for Michigan governor — James could become the state's first elected Black Republican governor.
In Missouri, Rep. Wesley Bell defeated Cori Bush again in a primary rematch boosted by major pro-Israel outside spending.

What Happened

Five states held primaries this week, and Michigan stole the spotlight. Moderate Rep. Haley Stevens and progressive Dr. Abdul El-Sayed battled for the Democratic nomination to fill the Senate seat being vacated by retiring Sen. Gary Peters. Whoever wins faces Republican Rep. Mike Rogers in November — a race that could tip control of the Senate.

Michigan voters also set up a historic governor's race. ABC News projects Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Republican Rep. John James will advance to the general election. If James wins in November, he'd become Michigan's first elected Black Republican governor.

Down the ballot, progressive activist William Lawrence, a Democratic Socialists of America member, won the Democratic nomination in Michigan's 7th Congressional District, setting up a Toss Up race against first-term GOP Rep. Tom Barrett, according to the Cook Political Report.

Why Missouri Mattered Too

Michigan wasn't the only state making headlines. In Missouri's 1st Congressional District, incumbent Rep. Wesley Bell defeated former Rep. Cori Bush in a Democratic primary rematch of their 2024 contest, where Bell first unseated her. Outside spending played a big role — the United Democracy Project, a super PAC tied to the pro-Israel group AIPAC, poured millions into opposing Bush in both cycles.

The Bigger Picture

These primaries aren't just local news — they're previews of the battles that will define the next Congress. Michigan's Senate seat is one of the most competitive in the country, and the outcome in November could determine which party holds the majority. Meanwhile, the governor's race adds another layer: a potential historic first if James wins, and a signal of how swing-state voters are leaning heading into a critical midterm cycle.

The Missouri result also underscores a broader pattern this election cycle — well-funded outside groups increasingly shaping primary outcomes, especially around foreign policy litmus tests like support for Israel.

What's Next

All eyes now turn to November. Michigan's Senate and governor's races will be among the most closely watched in the country, with implications for both Senate control and historic representation. Expect heavy spending, national attention, and plenty of debate stages between now and Election Day.

Why it matters

These primary results set the stage for some of the most consequential races of the midterms, including a Senate contest that could shift the balance of power in Washington. If you care about who controls Congress next year — or want to see how outside money and grassroots movements are reshaping both parties — this is a race worth tracking.