Michigan Representative Haley Stevens, a Democratic candidate in the upcoming Michigan Senate primary, reaffirmed her support for continued U.S. military aid to Israel during an event in Grand Rapids on Monday, August 3rd, 2026, the day before the primary election.

Stevens faced protests concerned about the tens of millions of dollars spent on her campaign by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and affiliated groups. CBS News correspondent Ed O'Keefe questioned Stevens about the influence of these donations, to which she responded that the financial support reflected strong backing from Democrats.

"Every single poll shows I'm the best one to go beat Mike Rogers," Stevens said, referring to the Republican candidate running unopposed, who has a $45 million PAC supported by former President Donald Trump. She criticized Rogers for allegedly siding with opioid manufacturers and China.

Addressing her stance on Israel, Stevens said, "You get two different views here in this primary, right? I want a two-state solution." She emphasized her commitment to continuing military aid to Israel despite it being a less popular position than in the past.

Stevens also accused her primary opponent, progressive populist Abdul El-Sayed, of not recognizing Israel's right to exist.

The Michigan Senate race has become one of the most expensive in the country, with about $80 million spent so far, including $60 million supporting Stevens' campaign, much of it from pro-Israel groups like AIPAC.

Stevens concluded by calling for political reform, stating, "Our system needs to evolve. I want to end dark money in politics."

Sources