The Michigan U.S. Senate race between Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin and former Republican Rep. Mike Rogers is heating up, as they prepare for two key debates in October. Slotkin currently leads in polls, with recent surveys indicating a 4 to 9 point advantage over Rogers, who has garnered support from former President Donald Trump and national Republican funding. The race, which emerged due to Debbie Stabenow's retirement, is considered crucial for control of the Senate, with experts highlighting issues such as cost of living, reproductive rights, immigration, and the war in Gaza as pivotal for voters. The first debate will take place on October 8, hosted by WOOD-TV in Grand Rapids, followed by a second on October 14 at WXYZ in Detroit. Both candidates emphasize their experience, with Slotkin serving since 2018 and Rogers having a background as an FBI agent and former chairman of the House Intelligence Committee. This highly competitive race is rated as a toss-up by the Cook Political Report.