Obama backs El-Sayed in Detroit as Michigan midterms hinge on Black vote

Key points

• Obama spoke to approximately 3,000 attendees in the gym and 1,000 in an overflow theater at Cass Technical High School in Detroit on Oct. 24, the first day of Michigan early voting.
• Obama endorsed El-Sayed and Benson, framing the midterms as a chance to check Trump’s power and address rising costs, including gas and groceries.
• El-Sayed, a former public health official, faces Republican Mike Rogers in a Senate race rated as a toss-up; polls show El-Sayed leading by a narrow margin statewide but with a significant advantage among Black voters.
• Benson, the current secretary of state, runs for governor against Republican John James, seeking to replace term-limited Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
• Obama acknowledged past criticisms of his presidency by El-Sayed, stating they share core values despite disagreements on specific policies like the Affordable Care Act.
• Trump is scheduled to rally in Port Huron on Oct. 25, while Vice President JD Vance is set to campaign in Howell on Oct. 27.

Background

The Detroit rally occurs 10 days before the Nov. 3 general election, following a bitter Democratic primary in August where El-Sayed narrowly defeated incumbent Rep. Haley Stevens. Recent weeks have seen heightened attacks on El-Sayed’s faith and family, including claims of ties to the Muslim Brotherhood, which he denies. Obama’s visit is his first in-person campaign stop for the midterms, following a stop in Cleveland. The race is viewed as pivotal for Democrats’ efforts to flip control of Congress, with Michigan Senate and House seats seen as key battlegrounds.

How outlets are covering it

The Detroit News and WXYZ 7 News emphasized the unity of the Democratic ticket and the enthusiasm of the crowd, highlighting Obama’s call for 'change' and the optimism of local leaders like Rep. Debbie Dingell. The Guardian focused on Obama’s sharp criticisms of Trump’s administration, including his handling of tariffs and the Iran War, and his defense of El-Sayed against attacks on his faith. NBC News highlighted the importance of the Black vote in Detroit, noting that while El-Sayed leads among Black voters, tensions exist between Arab American and Black communities, as noted by Detroit City Council member Mary Waters. Republicans, including the RNC and Republican Governors Association, criticized the rally as a political stunt, arguing that Obama’s presence validates El-Sayed’s extremism and distracts from economic issues. Hunter Lovell of the RNC claimed Rogers is building a broad coalition to defeat El-Sayed and end 'failed Democrat rule' in Michigan.

Why it matters

The outcome of the Michigan Senate race could determine whether Democrats gain a majority in the U.S. Senate, influencing national policy on healthcare, tariffs, and foreign affairs. Obama’s endorsement aims to solidify support among Black voters in Detroit, a crucial demographic in a state where the race is too close to call. The rally also signals the intensity of the 2026 midterms, with both parties deploying top-tier figures to influence a competitive electorate. Early voting has begun, with 14% of registered voters having already cast ballots, setting the stage for a final push before Nov. 3.

What to watch

President Trump is scheduled to hold a rally in Port Huron on Oct. 25, followed by Vice President JD Vance’s campaign stop in Howell on Oct. 27. Early voting in Michigan continues through Nov. 1, with the general election on Nov. 3. Campaigns for El-Sayed and Rogers are expected to intensify efforts to mobilize voters, particularly in Detroit and other urban areas, as both sides seek to maximize turnout in a tight race.