Michigan Senate Candidates El-Sayed and Rogers to Participate in First Debate
Democrat Abdul El-Sayed and Republican Mike Rogers will participate in a debate in Grand Rapids on Thursday night as part of their closely watched Michigan US Senate race. This is the first of two planned debates for the candidates competing…

Grand Rapids Kalamazoo Battle Creek, MI, October 8, 2026 —
Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed and Republican candidate Mike Rogers are scheduled to participate in a debate on Thursday night in Grand Rapids. This event marks the first of two planned debates for the candidates vying for the Michigan US Senate seat.
The race is a key contest to determine who will succeed retiring US Senator Gary Peters. Political analysts and polls indicate that the competition between El-Sayed and Rogers is considered a toss-up, highlighting the close nature of the election.
This upcoming debate is anticipated to provide voters with further insights into the candidates’ platforms and policy positions as they seek to represent Michigan in the US Senate. The event is scheduled to take place in Grand Rapids.
The candidates are contesting the seat currently held by Senator Gary Peters, who is not seeking re-election. This debate is the first opportunity for the public to see the two major contenders face off on a debate stage before the election.
Story summarized from the original created by Bridge Staff on bridgemi.com, see more information here.
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