Michigan primary: 7 things to watch in US Senate, governor, other elections

August 3, 2026

Michigan's August 4th primary election has drawn national attention due to several high-stakes contests that will shape the November general election. The Democratic Senate primary features a contentious battle between moderate Haley Stevens, backed by establishment figures, and progressive Abdul El-Sayed, who leads in recent polls despite being vastly outspent by outside groups spending an estimated $60 million. On the Republican side, businessman Perry Johnson is investing over $30 million of personal wealth to challenge Trump-endorsed John James in the gubernatorial primary.

Who is affected

Michigan voters across the state
Democratic Senate candidates Abdul El-Sayed and Haley Stevens
Republican gubernatorial candidates Perry Johnson and John James
Democratic gubernatorial candidates Jocelyn Benson and Chris Swanson
Congressional candidates in the 7th District: William Lawrence, Matt Maasdam, and Bridget Brink
Congressional candidates in the 13th District: incumbent Shri Thanedar and challenger Donavan McKinney
Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers (future general election opponent)
Residents of August Township in Washtenaw County (data center referendum)
Communities voting on 286 tax increase proposals and 588 millage renewals
School districts with bond and sinking millage proposals
Outside interest groups, including the United Democracy Project/AIPAC
National Democratic and Republican parties seeking congressional majority control

What action is being taken

More than 1.2 million Michigan voters are casting their ballots through mail-in absentee or early in-person voting (as of Monday morning)
Outside interest groups are spending an estimated $60 million on the Senate primary alone, with much going into ads promoting Stevens or attacking El-Sayed
Perry Johnson is spending $30-plus million of his personal fortune on his gubernatorial campaign
Citizens in August Township are voting on a referendum to overturn a zoning ordinance
Communities across the state are holding votes on 286 tax increase proposals and 588 millage renewals

Why it matters

This primary election will determine whether progressive or moderate Democrats control key nominations, which has significant implications for party unity and success in November's general election. The Senate race is particularly crucial because Democrats need to hold Michigan's seat to have any chance of regaining majority control from Republicans. Research shows that winning close and highly divisive primaries generally doesn't bode well for general election success, as supporters of losing candidates may become disillusioned or refuse to support the nominee. The outcomes will also test whether progressive messaging can resonate in purple Midwestern states like Michigan, and whether massive campaign spending can overcome grassroots support. Additionally, the results will provide insights into voter enthusiasm levels within each party heading into the general election.

What's next

The primary election will be held on Tuesday, August 4. Winners of the Democratic Senate primary will face Republican Mike Rogers in the general election. The winner of the 7th Congressional District Democratic primary will face US Rep. Tom Barrett in what Cook Political Report rates as a toss-up race. Winners of various primaries will advance to compete in the November general election. Voters will await results after polls close Tuesday.

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com