Abdul El-Sayed, a candidate for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate in Michigan, has received an endorsement from the United Auto Workers (UAW), according to reports.

El-Sayed is competing in a Democratic primary field that includes Rep. Haley Stevens and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow for the Senate seat currently held by Sen. Gary Peters, who is retiring.

The UAW endorsement provides El-Sayed with organized labor support as he seeks to distinguish himself in the competitive primary race. The union represents a significant voting bloc in Michigan, a state with a substantial manufacturing workforce.

The Democratic primary will determine who faces the Republican nominee in the general election for the Senate seat in November. Michigan is considered a key battleground state in national elections.