Rogers and James urge Michigan voters to break party lines before Tuesday election

Republican candidates in Michigan held their final pre-election rally on Monday night in Rochester Hills, focusing on a strategy to win over independent and moderate voters. The event featured U.S. Senate candidate Mike Rogers alongside gubernatorial candidate John James and other downballot nominees. The gathering served as the last major public appearance for the ticket before the Tuesday vote.

Rogers, a former congressman, addressed the crowd with a direct appeal to turnout. He told the audience to find a companion to vote with and to cast ballots for what he described as faith, family, and freedom. The senatorial contest has drawn national attention due to its contentious nature and high visibility. Rogers currently trails Democratic rival Abdul El-Sayed in the polls but aims to flip the seat held by Sen. Gary Peters for over a decade.

The campaign’s strategy relies on specific demographic shifts. Rogers expects higher-than-normal turnout from Detroit’s Black voters and suburban Jewish voters. At the rally, several attendees voiced support for the Republican ticket. One voter from Pontiac stated that Rogers represents candidates from all walks of life, including Democrats, Republicans, and Independents.

Rogers highlighted the endorsement of Congresswoman Haley Stephens, a Democrat whose support drew criticism from party leaders. He pointed to the U.S. flag while thanking her for placing her belief in him above party affiliation. This cross-party backing is central to the narrative Rogers has built during his bus tour across the state.

John James, running for governor, emphasized his bipartisan experience to appeal to a divided electorate. He noted his work with both President Biden on human trafficking and President Trump on EV mandates. James described Michigan as a purple state where he aims to be the Goldilocks candidate, neither too far left nor too far right.

Other candidates on the ballot included Michael Bouchard for the 10th Congressional District and Anthony Forlini for Secretary of State. The group believes their combined efforts will allow them to outperform their current poll numbers. The rally concluded with the candidates urging supporters to finalize their plans for Tuesday’s election day.