Former President Barack Obama is set to campaign in Detroit on October 24 in support of Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, marking a significant endorsement for the progressive nominee ahead of the November midterm elections. The event will also feature other prominent Democrats in the state, including Jocelyn Benson, the party’s nominee for governor.

Obama’s increased involvement in the midterms reflects broader Democratic efforts to unify the party following a contentious primary season. El-Sayed secured the Democratic nomination for the open Senate seat in August by narrowly defeating moderate Representative Haley Stevens. The seat is considered a key race that could influence control of the Senate in the coming term. Since the primary, El-Sayed has been working to consolidate support among Democrats as he prepares to face Republican Mike Rogers.

Last week, Obama recorded two dozen campaign advertisements for Democratic gubernatorial and Senate candidates, which are scheduled to air in the final weeks before the election. In addition to the Detroit rally, further campaign appearances and ad releases from the former president are expected. Earlier this year, Obama participated in a campaign ad for Iowa Senate candidate Josh Turek and campaigned alongside Texas Senate candidate James Talarico and gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa. He is also slated to headline a fundraiser in Washington this week supporting Democratic Senate candidates.

The Michigan Senate primary highlighted ideological divisions within the Democratic Party. El-Sayed garnered endorsements from leading progressives, including Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York. His opponent, Stevens, who was supported by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, won the overall vote in Wayne County, which encompasses Detroit and is predominantly Black. Stevens took approximately 51% of the primary vote in Wayne County compared with 45% for El-Sayed.

Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black and South Asian person to hold the office, also campaigned with El-Sayed last month, further signaling the party’s support for the progressive candidate.

Meanwhile, Benson faces a competitive gubernatorial race against Republican Representative John James. The two are scheduled to participate in their first debate on October 10. El-Sayed and Rogers are expected to hold their first debate on October 8, as the campaigns intensify in the lead-up to the midterm election.