Michigan Democratic primary narrows to two candidates after third drops out

The remaining contenders are a U.S. representative backed by party leadership and a former county health director endorsed by progressive figures. The winner of the August 4 primary will face a former Republican representative in the November general election for the seat held by a retiring Democratic senator.

Race background The seat is viewed by both parties as competitive.

Nonpartisan analysts rate the general election a toss-up, and the outcome could affect which party holds the Senate majority. The departing candidate said she would support the eventual nominee and pledged to continue advocating for her priorities. The U.S. representative praised her record and stated she remains the strongest candidate to win the primary and the general election.

The former health director said the departing candidate showed courage in challenging party insiders and invited her supporters to join his campaign. He accused unnamed groups of spending millions to influence the outcome.

Candidate positions The former health director has made Medicare-for-all a central campaign issue and has said he will not accept donations from political action committees. He has also called for abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and has criticized U.S. policy toward Israel.

The U.S. representative has received support from super PACs, including contributions from groups aligned with Israel. Party strategists have described her as more electable in a state carried by President Trump in the last presidential election. A center-left Democratic organization official told Fox News the Michigan contest differs from recent primaries in heavily Democratic districts because of the state's demographics and the candidates involved.