The Democratic primary race for the U.S. Senate seat in Michigan remains too close to call early on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. Progressive former public health official Abdul El-Sayed holds a narrow lead over Congresswoman Haley Stevens, with El-Sayed at 49.5% and Stevens at 45.78% of the vote, based on more than 95% of ballots counted.

Both candidates addressed their supporters, acknowledging the tight race and the likelihood that vote counting would continue throughout the day. Stevens said, “We knew that this was going to be a close race, and that’s exactly what we’ve got. I am feeling fired up, and you should be too.”

The campaign has drawn national attention due to the significance of the general election in determining Senate control. Stevens, who flipped Michigan’s 11th House district in 2019, has secured endorsements from prominent Democrats including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and retiring Senator Gary Peters, whose seat she seeks.

Meanwhile, community organizer Lawrence, co-founder of the Sunrise Movement, will face Republican incumbent Tom Barrett in the general election. Barrett, who has occasionally opposed his party, flipped a key battleground district red in 2024.

The outcome of this primary will shape a critical Senate race in Michigan ahead of the midterm elections.

Sources