Key facts
- Former President Barack Obama will campaign in Detroit on Oct. 24.
- He will appear with Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed and gubernatorial nominee Jocelyn Benson.
- The event is scheduled for the first day of Michigan's early in-person voting period.
- Obama has taped ads for at least two dozen Democratic candidates for governor and US Senate.
- El-Sayed won a close Democratic primary against Rep. Haley Stevens.
Former President Barack Obama is set to campaign in Detroit on October 24, lending his support to Michigan's Democratic candidates, including Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed and gubernatorial nominee Jocelyn Benson. The event, announced by the state party, coincides with the start of Michigan's early in-person voting period and comes as Democrats aim to defend an open Senate seat and the governor's office in the upcoming midterm elections.
Obama's appearance is a significant show of support for El-Sayed, who secured a narrow victory in a closely contested Democratic primary against U.S. Representative Haley Stevens. The primary exposed divisions within the party, and Obama's rally is seen as an effort to consolidate support. El-Sayed is facing Republican Mike Rogers in the general election, while Benson is running against Republican John James.
The former president's involvement is part of a broader nationwide push to boost Democratic candidates in the midterm elections. He has recently taped ads for at least two dozen candidates and is expected to participate in additional campaign stops and events in the closing weeks before Election Day. Obama previously campaigned in Michigan in 2024 for Vice President Kamala Harris and has made appearances in the state for federal elections since leaving office.