Branch County (Michigan) Democrats

***Important***
The upcoming debate for Michigan's U.S. Senate seat is scheduled for Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. ET. It will be a primary debate featuring the leading Democratic candidates: Abdul El-Sayed, Mallory McMorrow, and Haley Stevens. The debate is sponsored by AARP Michigan and hosted by WOOD TV8, and will be televised and streamed online.

Upcoming Debate DetailsDate & Time: Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. ET (with pre-debate interviews beginning at 6:30 p.m.).
Location: WOOD TV8 Studios in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Where to Watch: Broadcasts on WLNS, WOOD TV8, and streams online via the WLNS website, WLNS YouTube, and WOOD TV8 Streaming.

Key Candidates & Platforms

The Democratic contenders are vying to succeed retiring Sen. Gary Peters in the August 4, 2026, primary.

Abdul El-Sayed: A public health official and former gubernatorial candidate running on a progressive platform. He frequently emphasizes Medicare for All, taxing billionaires, equal rights, affordability and addressing the crisis in Gaza.

Mallory McMorrow: A state senator who centers her campaign on economic affordability, AI oversight, and protecting reproductive and healthcare rights.

Haley Stevens: A U.S. Representative who leans into her experience with the auto industry and takes a more traditional Democratic approach to Washington policymaking, frequently emphasizing job creation and manufacturing.

General Election Outlook:

The winner of the Democratic primary will face the presumptive Republican nominee, former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, in the November 3, 2026, general election. The race is viewed nationally as a toss-up and is crucial for determining control of the U.S. Senate.

We already have one table reserved and filled. If we get 6 more interested persons we can get a second table like we did last year. It’s going to be a great even.

We are excited to announce our speakers for the 2026 Harry S Truman Dinner. Scheduled to speak are:

Lt Gov Garlin Gilchrist

MDP Chair Curtis Hertel

US House of Representatives Candidate Christian Vukasovich

Michigan House of Representatives Candidate
Jeff Cooley

Tickets go on sale July 1! The link to purchase tickets is in comments.

Important information. Absentee ballots are being mailed this week.

The August 4 Primary Election is coming up! Here’s what you need to know to cast your ballot and make your voice heard.