Rogers refuses Michigan Senate event

Republican Mike Rogers skipped a September 15 televised town hall with Democratic opponent Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan's U.S. Senate race, saying he never agreed to participate.

“Well, first of all, it's not a debate. It's a town hall. We never agreed to it.”

Rogers accuses station of favoritism

Rogers' campaign released a statement accusing Fox 2 Detroit of bias, suggesting the moderator had already chosen a side. Rogers said you can't have a fair two-on-one event in a TV studio.

“When you have someone who's already picked their candidate, you can't have a two-on-one event in a TV studio.”

El-Sayed says Rogers avoiding confrontation

El-Sayed appeared at the event and said Rogers was dodging questions about tariffs, war costs, and his support for President Trump. He noted Rogers made time for a Republican convention in Dallas.

“If I were him, I wouldn't debate me either.”

Race is toss-up for critical Senate seat

The Michigan Senate race is one of the most closely watched in the country. The University of Virginia rates it a toss-up, and control of the Senate depends on who wins the seat being vacated by retiring Democrat Gary Peters.

Two debates scheduled for October

Both candidates have agreed to debates on October 8 and October 21 in Michigan. El-Sayed had challenged Rogers to five debates, but Rogers rejected that proposal.

“You're gonna get two debates right here in Michigan.”