The Senate Leadership Fund (SLF) is significantly increasing its financial support for former Rep. Mike Rogers’ Senate campaign in Michigan, adding $10.5 million to the race. This brings their total investment in the state to $33 million as of October, signaling the growing importance of Michigan in the battle for Senate control.
The SLF’s involvement reflects its belief that Michigan could play a decisive role in determining which party holds the Senate after the 2024 elections.
Historically, the SLF has concentrated its efforts in states like Montana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. However, the decision to prioritize Michigan this late in the campaign cycle marks a strategic shift, underscoring its potential as a swing state. Polling on the race has shown mixed results, with some internal SLF data suggesting that Rogers is trailing by 8 points, while other polls indicate a much closer contest.
Rogers’ own campaign has released internal data suggesting that he is only behind by a single point among likely voters. Additionally, polling from the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) and Quinnipiac University paints an even more competitive picture, showing Rogers in a statistical tie with Democratic candidate Rep. Elissa Slotkin. This has encouraged Republicans to view the Michigan Senate race as highly competitive and winnable.
Senate Leadership Fund Boosts Support for Mike Rogers with $10.5M Investment in Michigan Senate Race
Republicans are focusing on key issues like the economy and immigration in their messaging, but Michigan’s role as a hub for the auto industry has brought special attention to the Biden administration’s electric vehicle (EV) policies.
Many Republicans believe these policies, backed by Slotkin, are unpopular in the state and could push voters toward the GOP. This strategy highlights the tension between green energy initiatives and Michigan’s economic interests in traditional manufacturing sectors.
Steven Law, President of the SLF, emphasized that Slotkin’s support for President Biden’s green energy agenda is a major point of contention for voters in Michigan. According to Law, many Michiganders are dissatisfied with the Democratic status quo and are seeking a change in leadership, which could work in favor of Rogers as the election approaches.
