Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive former public health official, has won the Democratic primary for the US Senate in Michigan, according to an NBC News projection. His victory marks a significant win for the Democratic Party's progressive wing in one of the country's key battleground states.
El-Sayed defeated Representative Haley Stevens in a closely watched contest that highlighted deep ideological divisions within the Democratic Party. The race drew national attention and attracted millions of dollars in campaign spending, much of it from outside groups.
Following his projected victory, El-Sayed called on Democrats to unite ahead of the general election. He is expected to face Republican Mike Rogers in November in a race that could play an important role in determining control of the US Senate.
Political analysts say the outcome reflects growing support for progressive candidates among Democratic voters in Michigan. The race was widely seen as a test of whether the party's progressive or more moderate wing would have greater influence heading into the general election.