UAW Backs Abdul El-Sayed in Key Michigan Senate Primary

The endorsement from the UAW, representing over 350,000 active and retired members, positions El-Sayed as a frontrunner against establishment-backed rivals, including Rep. Haley Stevens and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow. While Stevens has leaned on her background as a technocrat and her tenure during the 2009 auto rescue, the labor union’s decision underscores a preference for El-Sayed’s populist platform, which includes Medicare for All and a ban on stock buybacks.

Despite Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer reportedly working behind the scenes to steer donor support toward Stevens, El-Sayed continues to consolidate progressive backing. He has already secured support from Senator Bernie Sanders, National Nurses United, and several prominent House Democrats. As the primary approaches in August, the contest has evolved into a proxy battle between the party’s moderate establishment and a rising progressive wing that rejects corporate PAC money.