Pux Cider, a bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan, apologized publicly for hosting a private event that endorsed Democrat Michigan Representative and Senate hopeful Haley Stevens on Monday, August 4th, 2026. The venue initially described the gathering as a “private women’s Dem event” but later clarified it was a campaign event for Stevens.

In an Instagram statement, Pux Cider expressed regret, stating, “We are heartbroken as we pride ourselves on being not only a queer friendly space but also have advocated and continue to call for a free Palestine. We DO NOT endorse Haley Stevens.” The bar promised to be more vigilant in vetting private events in the future and pledged to donate the proceeds from the night to the Grand Rapids Pride Center. Pux Cider is located next to the Kent County Democrat Party office.

Haley Stevens’ campaign focuses on lowering healthcare costs, prioritizing clean water, reducing housing costs, and creating economic opportunities in underserved communities, according to her campaign website. In a May 2026 interview, Stevens expressed frustration when questioned about the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), stating, “I’m not breaking [Federal Elections Communications] laws by any stretch of the means.”

Separately, Mariam Muhammed Odeh, a former staffer for Abdul El-Sayed, is facing federal charges for alleged threats and vandalism against University of Michigan employees, as reported by the Daily Caller.

Sources