Politics · October 9, 2026
Takeaways from Michigan Senate debate between Abdul El-Sayed, Mike Rogers
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Republican Mike Rogers and Democrat Abdul El-Sayed participated in their first Michigan Senate debate in Grand Rapids. The candidates discussed the war in Iran, federal gas taxes, Medicare for All, and trade tariffs with Canada. The exchange was characterized by sharp personal attacks, including Rogers questioning El-Sayed's medical credentials and El-Sayed criticizing Rogers' shifting positions on President Trump and foreign policy. Both candidates indicated support for a pause on the federal gas tax to address rising costs.
Republican Mike Rogers and Democrat Abdul El-Sayed participated in their first Michigan Senate debate in Grand Rapids. The candidates discussed the war in Iran, federal gas taxes, Medicare for All, and trade tariffs with Canada. The exchange was characterized by sharp personal attacks, including Rogers questioning El-Sayed's medical credentials and El-Sayed criticizing Rogers' shifting positions on President Trump and foreign policy. Both candidates indicated support for a pause on the federal gas tax to address rising costs.