Harper says he gives VP Harris the best chance to win Michigan, not Slotkin
Hill Harper in Detroit on July 11, 2023 | Ken Coleman
Updated at 12:44 p.m. 8/2/24
As the state’s primary election approaches, Hill Harper, a Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, told reporters Thursday that he gives Vice President Kamala Harris the best chance to win Michigan in the fall.
“Hill Harper winning the U.S. Senate primary helps Kamala Harris win the presidency in November …” said Harper, an actor from Detroit. “We believe that we are the best campaign to deliver straight-party votes.”
Harper faces U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly) in the Tuesday race to replace retiring U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Lansing).
Harris is slated to do two events in Detroit next week after announcing her running mate. She expected to formally be nominated during the Democratic National Convention later this month. She will face former President Donald Trump.
The Slotkin campaign did not respond to an Advance request for comment.
On the GOP side, three candidates are running in the Tuesday primary: former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-White Lake), former Rep. Justin Amash (I-Cascade Twp.) and Dr. Sherry O’Donnell.
Michigan has been a competitive state for recent presidential elections. Trump won Michigan in 2016 by about 10,000 votes. Democratic President Joe Biden won Michigan in 2020 by 150,000 votes.
Later on Thursday, the Harper campaign held a fundraiser that featured several Hollywood entertainers and recording artists, including Nick Cannon and JB Smoove. Harper previously held a fundraising event with comedian Dave Chappelle.
This story was updated to correctly identify Harper’s profession.
