Rep. Haley Stevens Launches Senate Campaign, Blasting Trump's 'Chaos' and Tariffs

In a strategic move to claim Michigan's open U.S. Senate seat, Rep. Haley Stevens kicked off her campaign highlighting the economic turmoil attributed to former President Donald Trump's controversial tariff policies. In a video statement, she expressed grave concerns over the impact of these tariffs on Michigan's auto industry, stressing that they pose a serious risk to tens of thousands of jobs in the state. "His chaos and reckless tariffs are putting tens of thousands of Michigan jobs at risk," she stated, drawing attention to the volatile economic landscape that has left many families struggling. Stevens, who has represented parts of suburban Detroit since 2018, positioned herself as a defender of the auto industry, leveraging her previous experience on the U.S. Treasury’s auto task force during the Obama administration when the government intervened to rescue General Motors and Chrysler. She emphasized that Trump's erratic tariff strategies create more uncertainty, stating that such unpredictability can disrupt business operations, making future planning a challenge. The race is heating up as Stevens enters a competitive Democratic primary against prominent candidates like State Sen. Mallory McMorrow, known for her viral moments taking on controversial GOP claims, and Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive figure endorsed by Senator Bernie Sanders. This sets the stage for a dynamic contest where narratives around economic stability against the backdrop of Trump's tariffs and their implications for manufacturing will play crucial roles. On the Republican side, former Rep. Mike Rogers, who narrowly lost a Senate race last year, is also in contention, aiming to flip the seat that holds significant strategic importance for the GOP as they seek to expand their majority in the Senate. The Democratic primary could feature further candidates, with Joe Tate reportedly considering a run as well. Overall, Michigan's upcoming Senate race is poised to become one of the most compelling electoral battles of the 2026 cycle, especially as it embodies broader national issues surrounding trade, manufacturing, and economic policy. With Democrats aiming to protect a vulnerable seat, Stevens' candidacy underscores the importance of presenting strong, actionable economic alternatives to the status quo shaped by Trump's administration. Her framing of the campaign against Trump's 'chaos agenda' not only attempts to resonate with local constituents but also establishes her identity as a candidate rooted in stability and a strong commitment to Michigan's manufacturing sector. The race thus reflects not just local priorities but also national themes that appeal to a broader electorate, providing a platform for highlighting the potential economic challenges stemming from previous administration policies.