Progressive senator breaks with Democratic leadership to back far-left Michigan candidate (opens original article in a new tab)

Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen endorsed progressive Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan's Democratic Senate primary, challenging party leadership and reflecting internal Democratic divisions over the party's direction.

• Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen endorsed Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan's Democratic Senate primary, breaking with party leadership
• El-Sayed is a progressive candidate backed by the left wing of the Democratic Party, opposing the establishment and corporate interests
• Van Hollen's endorsement highlights the ideological split within Democrats over the party's direction and strategy for 2026