Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer faced questions about whether "hidden xenophobia" will affect the midterm elections during an MS NOW interview focused on Republican attacks against Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed.

MS NOW anchor Peter Alexander asked Whitmer directly if there was hidden xenophobia in Republican messaging against El-Sayed, a Muslim American physician running in Michigan's competitive Senate race. The question came as Whitmer prepares to leave office after reaching her term limit in the 2026 gubernatorial election.

Five Candidates Compete to Replace Term Limited Governor

Michigan's top political office is up for grabs in the 2026 midterm election with Whitmer unable to seek another term. Michigan Public reported that five candidates are on the ballot to replace her, with the winner having an opportunity to direct the state's response to many issues Michigans face today.

Whitmer has warned throughout the campaign season that it would be a mistake not to assume Trump will interfere with midterm elections. In January remarks to National Public Radio, she said it's not paranoid to be concerned that President Donald Trump wants to compromise the election.

Election Security Investments and Legislative Changes

During her tenure, Whitmer secured new state and federal funding from the Help America Vote Act to modernize election equipment and systems, according to state documents. Her administration also protected voters by making it illegal to possess a firearm at polling locations.

The governor enacted a budget investing in cybersecurity, election administration, and voter access as part of her efforts to ensure free and fair elections. The Michigan Chronicle highlighted these initiatives as central to Whitmer's legacy on election integrity.

The question about hidden xenophobia reflects broader Democratic concerns about coded messaging in Republican campaigns. El-Sayed's candidacy has drawn scrutiny from conservative groups questioning his background and religious affiliation, leading Democrats to characterize some attacks as veiled bigotry.

Whitmer's response to the xenophobia question was not detailed in the initial Fox News report, but her willingness to address the topic publicly signals Democratic confidence in making immigration and religious tolerance campaign issues. The governor has traveled to every county in Michigan during her eight years in office, according to her published statements.

Michigan remains a critical swing state in both gubernatorial and Senate races, with both parties investing heavily in ground operations and messaging strategies. The outcome will test whether Republican messaging resonates with voters or whether Democrats can successfully frame it as divisive fearmongering.