# US election contests in Michigan and California > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-election-contests-in-michigan-and-california > Updated: 2026-09-16T04:36:48.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Political contests in Michigan and California are defining the landscape for upcoming general elections. In Michigan, the Senate race features progressive Democrat Abdul El-Sayed against Republican Mike Rogers, while the gubernatorial race includes Democrat Jocelyn Benson and Republican John James. In California’s 22nd Congressional District, Democrat Randy Villegas is challenging Republican incumbent David Valadao with a platform centered on Medicare for All. As the election cycle progresses in Michigan, candidates have shifted their focus toward the economy, jobs, and cost of living, as polling suggests environmental concerns are a low priority for voters. Candidates are now framing environmental policy through energy affordability and corporate accountability. In the governor’s race, Benson has linked clean energy to job creation, whereas James has pledged to repeal the state’s clean energy law. Additionally, the Michigan Senate race has seen increased tension following a debate in Detroit regarding healthcare and economic records. The Rogers campaign issued a cease and desist letter in response to El-Sayed’s claims that Rogers served as a pharmaceutical lobbyist, noting that while Rogers held various consulting roles, records do not show him as a registered pharmaceutical lobbyist. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-16: Michigan candidates shift focus to energy and economy in election cycles Michigan political candidates are shifting focus toward energy affordability and economic stability as voters prioritize cost of living over direct climate messaging in upcoming election cycles. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/michigan-candidates-shift-focus-to-energy-and-economy-in-election-cycles ### 2026-09-14: US political candidates prepare for general elections in Michigan and California Democratic and Republican candidates are preparing for general elections in Michigan and California, with key races focusing on healthcare, affordability, and progressive policy shifts. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-political-candidates-prepare-for-general-elections-in-michigan-and-california --- Cite as: US election contests in Michigan and California. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-election-contests-in-michigan-and-california