Michigan senate candidates debate electric vehicles, border security, and Iraq war

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In a heated debate for Michigan’s Senate seat, candidates Rep. Elissa Slotkin and Republican opponent Mike Rogers clashed over key state and national issues, including the transition to electric vehicles, border security, and the Iraq War. The event, held in Grand Rapids, marked the first face-off between the two, with both sides trading accusations of dishonesty and political misrepresentation.

Slotkin, who has maintained a small lead since August, raised concerns about Rogers’ role in the Iraq War, stating that he was a strong supporter during his tenure as chair of the House Intelligence Committee. Rogers countered, claiming that Congress had been misled by the intelligence community, linking Slotkin’s CIA background to deceptive practices.

The debate also touched on border security, with Rogers echoing former President Donald Trump’s remarks about Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds being misallocated to support illegal migrants. Rogers criticized Slotkin’s voting record, accusing her of allowing these funds to go to migrants instead of disaster relief.

Another point of contention was the development of electric vehicle battery plants in Michigan, with Rogers accusing Slotkin of supporting Chinese investment in the state. Slotkin denied the claims and argued that Rogers was using national security as a political tool.

Both candidates will meet again next Monday for a second debate near Detroit.