The MHA’s Race of the Week series provides Michigan healthcare champions with the information they need to make informed decisions ahead of the 2026 General Election. The weekly series will feature background on key races, candidates and ballot proposals, alongside MI Vote Matters materials available through the MHA Election webpage.
Abdul El-Sayed is a physician and former director of the Wayne County Department of Health, Human and Veterans Services. He previously served as health director for the city of Detroit and has worked in both clinical medicine and public health leadership roles. As a physician and public health leader, El-Sayed has worked on issues related to chronic disease prevention, maternal and child health, behavioral health and community health improvement. During his tenure in Wayne County, he oversaw public health programs serving one of the state’s largest and most diverse populations.
A Michigan native, El-Sayed has emphasized expanding access to healthcare, reducing health disparities and strengthening public health infrastructure. For more information, visit el-sayed.com.
Mike Rogers is a former state senator and member of the U.S. House of Representatives for Michigan’s 8th Congressional District. Prior to serving in elected office, Rogers worked as an officer in the U.S. Army and a special agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. During his time in Congress, Rogers served as chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and was a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which has jurisdiction over a wide range of healthcare issues, including Medicare, Medicaid and public health programs.
A lifelong Michigander, he has emphasized strengthening the economy, supporting families and addressing federal spending. For more information, visit rogersforsenate.com.
Members of the U.S. Senate play a critical role in shaping federal healthcare policy and funding decisions that affect patients, hospitals and communities across Michigan. Senators vote on legislation related to programs such as Medicare, Medicaid and public health initiatives, help determine federal spending priorities and confirm leaders of key agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services. Their decisions can influence everything from healthcare access and workforce development to prescription drug policy, behavioral health services and rural healthcare support, making the U.S. Senate an important voice in the future of healthcare nationwide.
Members with questions regarding the Race of the Week series or MI Vote Matters campaign may visit the MHA Election webpage or contact Lucy Ciaramitaro at the MHA.
Phone: (517) 703-8601
Fax: (517) 703-0628
