Harris links DEI cuts to threats to Black maternal health in Michigan Senate rally

At a campaign stop in Michigan, former Vice President Kamala Harris declared that undermining diversity, equity and inclusion is equivalent to attacking maternal health for Black women. She criticized the Trump administration for slashing NIH funding for studies such as uterine fibroid research, which disproportionately affect Black patients. Harris connected these policy moves to broader stakes in federal research budgets, Senate composition and the closely watched Michigan Senate race.

She supported Democratic nominee Abdul el Sayed, a physician and former health official, as he prepares to face Republican Mike Rogers after defeating Haley Stevens in the primary. The remarks also hinted at Harris’s continued engagement in Democratic politics ahead of the midterms, while she avoided confirming any presidential plans. Republican National Committee spokeswoman Natalie Baldassarre dismissed the event, attacking el Sayed’s credentials and Harris’s DEI stance.