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The dust has barely settled from the recent election, yet political gears are already turning for the next cycle. Preparations for the 2026 Midterms and Michigan’s significant role in the upcoming primaries are well underway.
Long before the 2026 Midterms, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) had already positioned Michigan as a crucial player by approving it as the fifth state to hold a presidential primary ahead of Super Tuesday. This strategic placement elevates Michigan’s influence as a pivotal swing state, compelling presidential candidates to forge strong ties with its residents and key stakeholders.
Michigan’s early primary slot follows those of South Carolina, Nevada, New Hampshire, and New Mexico, with Virginia trailing behind. This advantageous timing has attracted numerous politicians to the state, including:
- California Governor Gavin Newsom, who campaigned alongside Senator-Elect Abdul El-Sayed in August
- Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who rallied with Representative-Elect Sean McCann and Governor-Elect Jocelyn Benson
- New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who also supported El-Sayed
These political visits, though focused on supporting Michigan’s 2026 candidates, underscore the state’s burgeoning attractiveness to potential presidential contenders.
Habibi PAC
Further amplifying Michigan’s political clout, Abdul El-Sayed has initiated a leadership political action committee (PAC) called Habibi PAC. This PAC is designed to financially support various candidates, enhancing El-Sayed’s influence in the Democratic Party as the 2028 presidential election approaches.
According to Zena Issa of Michigan Public, the PAC is seen as a strategic move to bolster El-Sayed’s standing within the party. By channeling funds through this PAC, El-Sayed can promote his campaign’s core messages across supported candidates.
However, Neil Thanedar, executive director of the Michigan Campaign Finance Network, notes that this move contrasts with El-Sayed’s previous stance against accepting PAC money during his campaign. “It will be interesting to see who the donors are for this PAC and where the money goes, because Abdul El-Sayed has talked numerous times about not wanting to accept corporate PAC money and other special interest funding,” Thanedar remarked.
El-Sayed’s growing prominence and his newly launched PAC could potentially make him a significant figure in the Democratic landscape beyond Michigan, especially as strategies for winning battleground states in 2028 come into focus.
With Michigan set to play an early role in the Democratic primaries, residents will not only influence the choice of presidential nominees but also witness increased activity from hopeful candidates vying for support.
ICYMI
➡️Ohio Representative-Elect Don Leonard claimed, via social media, that senior Democrats warned of making his Congressional tenure “a living hell” should he oppose Hakeem Jeffries for the U.S. Speaker of the House position. Read the full story by WOSU’s George Shillcock.
What I’m watching: Social media influencers are rallying behind Michigan’s new delegation, urging them not to support Jeffries, asserting grassroots backing despite party leadership’s stance.
➡️Bridge Michigan recently interviewed Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton), incoming Michigan House Speaker, about his agenda for his forthcoming role. He will succeed outgoing House Speaker Matt Hall.
What I’m watching: I’m curious if Puri will devise an initiative surpassing the Hall Ethics, Accountability, and Transparency (HEAT) Plan.
Until next time,
Kalloli Bhatt, Digital Content Producer
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Have questions about Michigan politics? Or, just want to let us know what you want more of (or less of) in the newsletter? We always want to hear from you! Drop us an email at politics@michiganpublic.org!
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During her final year in office, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has undertaken similar trade missions to Italy, Switzerland, and South Korea.
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A coalition of maternal healthcare advocates is laying out their policy wish list for Michigan’s next legislative term.
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Abdul El-Sayed faced Islamophobia and taunts over his name on the campaign trail. Ali Abazeed shares his thoughts and reflections on the ownership and proclamation of one’s name to the world.
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