The political landscape in Michigan is heating up as Republican candidate Mike Rogers faces scrutiny over his ties to Florida. With the U.S. Senate race underway, questions about Rogers’ residency have emerged, fueling debates about his commitment to Michigan voters.
Rogers, known for his tenure in the U.S. House representing Livingston County from 2001 to 2014, is now competing against Abdul El-Sayed, a former Detroit Health Director, for the Senate seat soon to be vacated by Democrat Gary Peters. Despite his current residence in White Lake, Michigan, opponents label Rogers as a “Florida man,” pointing to his home in Cape Coral, Florida, as evidence of his disconnect from Michigan’s needs.
The Allegations
Critics, particularly from the Democratic side, argue that Rogers’ move to Florida post-Congress indicates a lack of dedication to Michigan. “He left Congress, became a millionaire off of his connections… and then now that he wants to serve, he decides to move back to Michigan,” said Curtis Hertel Jr., Michigan Democratic Party Chair, in a conversation with Bridge Michigan. During a speech, El-Sayed urged Rogers, “if you want to be a Florida man, go be a Florida man,” emphasizing his view that Rogers is more aligned with Florida than Michigan.
El-Sayed further exploited Rogers’ Florida connection via a social media post, referencing Rogers’ reluctance to commit to a debate due to his Florida residence. Rogers responded, highlighting his busy campaign schedule across Michigan and avoiding direct mention of Florida.
Rogers’ Residency Facts
Rogers, originally from Livingston County, sold his Howell home in 2014 and acquired properties in Maryland and Virginia. By 2022, he owned a $1.6 million home in Cape Coral, Florida, claiming it as his permanent residence for tax purposes in 2023. However, efforts to sell the property have been ongoing for over a year, with the home listed on Zillow for $2.4 million.
Currently, Rogers and his spouse reside in a White Lake Township home in Michigan, receiving a principal residence exemption. Although his residency in Michigan was questioned during the 2024 elections, Rogers dismissed these concerns as media-driven. As of August 2024, Rogers is registered to vote in Michigan, having canceled his Florida registration.
Current Campaign Dynamics
Rogers’ campaign spokesperson avoided detailed responses regarding his Florida tenure but redirected attention to El-Sayed’s alleged foreign property interests. This has been met with silence from El-Sayed’s campaign regarding Rogers’ Florida remarks.
The residency debate remains a focal point as the Senate race unfolds. Voters must decide if Rogers’ Florida residency impacts his suitability as a Michigan representative in the Senate. While Rogers’ qualifications to be on the ballot are undisputed, the residency narrative continues to be pivotal in shaping public perception.
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