Rogers and El-Sayed Clash in First Michigan Senate Debate

Republican Mike Rogers and Democrat Abdul El-Sayed held their first general-election debate in Michigan’s Senate race Thursday in Grand Rapids, trading personal attacks and clashing over the war with Iran, Israel, immigration, health care and trade. The candidates repeatedly interrupted one another, prompting moderator Rick Albin to intervene as the hourlong discussion grew contentious. The debate comes in a closely watched contest for the seat held by retiring Democratic Sen. Gary Peters. Rogers, a former congressman, is seeking to win the seat for Republicans, while El-Sayed, a former Wayne County health official, is the Democratic nominee. The election is scheduled for November 3. The candidates differed over the U.S. role in the conflict with Iran, while both said the war should end. El-Sayed blamed the conflict for high gas prices and opposed U.S. involvement, arguing that money should go to domestic needs. Rogers said Iran’s nuclear capabilities had been set back and called for the war to end, while maintaining that Iran should not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. They also offered opposing positions on aid to Israel.