Democrat switches to Republican

Haley Stevens, a Michigan Democrat who lost her primary bid, withdrew support for Abdul El-Sayed and endorsed Republican Mike Rogers two days before the midterm election.

Stevens defends her decision

Appearing on CNN, Stevens said simply: I changed my mind. She insisted nothing about her had changed but was now rock solid in backing Rogers.

“I changed my mind.”

Stevens says she was unwelcome

Stevens claimed El-Sayed told her she was not welcome in his campaign and he did not need her there. She said this prompted her endorsement switch.

“Abdul made clear that I was not welcome in his campaign, that he didn't need me there, that he didn't want me there.”

Party leaders condemn the move

Chuck Schumer, the top Democrat in the US Senate, called the endorsement a despicable betrayal. Many Stevens staff reportedly resigned immediately after her announcement.

“despicable betrayal”

Michigan Democrats disavow Stevens

Michigan Democratic Party chair Curtis Hertel wrote that Stevens is not a current member of the Michigan Democratic Party, nor will she be in the future.

“not a current member of the Michigan Democratic Party, nor will she be in the future”

Republicans applaud the endorsement

Mike Rogers said the move showed courage. Donald Trump agreed that Stevens had been very brave in switching her support to the Republican candidate.

El-Sayed dismisses the controversy

When asked about Stevens' endorsement, El-Sayed told reporters he was focused on problems facing people in the state. He said: At the end of the day, I don't think about Haley Stevens.

“At the end of the day, I don't think about Haley Stevens. None of this matters.”

Michigan race hinges on Senate control

The seat is currently in Democratic hands. Democrats need to retain it and win a handful of others to gain control of the US Senate and challenge President Donald Trump.