Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez made an endorsement Thursday for a crucial U.S. Senate race that could tip the balance of power in the chamber, her first major primary endorsement against a House colleague this year.
The New York Democrat backed progressive Abdul El-Sayed for Michigan’s open Senate seat. He is running against Rep. Haley Stevens, as well as state Sen. Mallory McMorrow.
The trio of candidates are set to face off in a hotly contested Aug. 4 primary. Polling suggests the identity of the Democratic challenger will be vital in the general election, a tight race crucial to determining which party gains a Senate majority, according to Decision Desk.