Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced a $1 million contribution to support Abdul El-Sayed’s bid for the U.S. Senate in Michigan, signaling her growing influence among progressive candidates ahead of the midterm elections.

Speaking at a campaign event in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on Thursday, Ocasio-Cortez said she would transfer the funds from her New York campaign to the Abdul for Michigan Victory Fund. This joint fundraising committee operates in coordination with the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee and the Michigan Democratic State Central Committee. “I will be transferring from our campaign in New York one million dollars to the state of Michigan to help support you all,” she said.

The donation underscores Ocasio-Cortez’s role as a leading fundraiser within the Democratic Party. Last year, she was the top fundraiser in the House of Representatives, securing $23.5 million from both local and national donors. Her current campaign committee holds over $17 million in cash reserves.

El-Sayed, a progressive candidate, is seeking to unseat the incumbent in a race that has attracted significant attention from national Democratic figures and organizations. Ocasio-Cortez’s financial support reflects the broader push by progressive leaders to expand their influence in key Senate contests.

The infusion of $1 million into the Michigan campaign demonstrates Ocasio-Cortez’s commitment to translating her fundraising success into tangible backing for aligned candidates in competitive races. The partnership with established Democratic committees aims to bolster El-Sayed’s chances as voters prepare for the upcoming midterm elections.