Three Democratic candidates competing for Michigan's open Senate seat participated in a debate Thursday, with tensions emerging over campaign financing and foreign policy positions.

Rep. Haley Stevens, state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, and Abdul El-Sayed, a former Wayne County Health, Human and Veteran Services director, are seeking the Democratic nomination to replace retiring Sen. Gary Peters. The primary election is scheduled for August.

During the debate, the candidates clashed over questions regarding foreign and corporate campaign donations. The discussion highlighted broader tensions within the Democratic Party over Israel-related policy positions and political support.

One notable moment occurred when candidates were questioned about positions related to pro-Israel organizations, reflecting ongoing debates within Democratic circles about foreign policy stances in the Middle East.

The Michigan Senate race is considered competitive, with the winner of the Democratic primary expected to face significant competition in the general election. Michigan has emerged as a key battleground state in recent election cycles.

The debate comes as Democratic candidates nationwide navigate evolving party positions on various foreign policy issues while attempting to appeal to diverse voter coalitions within their districts.