Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI), a candidate for Michigan’s U.S. Senate seat, faced criticism after appearing to falsely claim an endorsement from Berrien County Commissioner Chokwe Pitchford. According to reports, Stevens posted on social media thanking Pitchford for supporting her campaign. However, Pitchford denied the claim, stating, “I literally never endorsed her or heard a word from her team.” He emphasized he had not engaged with Stevens’ team about endorsements or shown any interest in doing so.
Stevens later removed the post acknowledging the endorsement. Her campaign attributed the incident to a “miscommunication” but provided no further details. Pitchford described the situation as “the most strange thing that has ever happened to me in politics,” reiterating he had not endorsed Stevens or any other Senate candidate.
Stevens’ campaign highlighted its support from various local figures, including former Speaker Joe Tate and multiple mayors, while Pitchford remained silent on further comments. The controversy emerged as Stevens competes in a crowded Democratic primary for the open Senate seat, with over 40% of voters still undecided.