Local Bar Apologizes For Hosting Event With Pro-Israel Michigan Democrat

A bar in Michigan posted a statement apologizing for hosting an event endorsing Democrat Michigan Rep. Haley Stevens.

Pux Cider in Grand Rapids, Michigan, posted a statement on social media after their taphouse hosted a “private women’s Dem event,” which in reality was an event for current representative and Senate hopeful Hailey Stevens.

“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,” the venue posted on Instagram. “We DO NOT endorse Haley Stevens. Our promise to our community is that in the future we will be more vigilant in requesting specific details for private events in the future.”

The company concluded by apologizing and promising to donate the “proceeds tonight to the Grand Rapids Pride Center.” Pux Cider is located next door to the Kent County Democrat Party office.

Operators of a venue where U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens held an event in Grand Rapids Monday say they didn’t know it was a Stevens campaign event. pic.twitter.com/brX6yHg4dy

In their efforts to create a “queer friendly space,” Pux hosted “Diva Cup! A World Cup watch party for the Gays, Theys, and Theater Kids,” in July 2026.

Stevens has faced scrutiny on the campaign trail, positioning herself as a moderate Democrat. She expressed support for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reform, a public option over Medicare for All, and strong support for Israel. Stevens’ policy agenda includes lowering healthcare costs, prioritizing clean water, lowering housing costs, and creating economic opportunities in “underserved communities,” according to her campaign website.

In a May 2026 interview, Stevens was visibly frustrated when asked about the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). “I’m not breaking [Federal Elections Communications] laws by any stretch of the means. In fact, I’m compliant with FEC laws and what’s gone on too. Also, Chad, you know that individual contributions, no, I’m not! Look, why would you ask me that question, first of all?” Stevens asked. (RELATED: Democratic Senate Candidate Haley Stevens Joins The Mid-Interview Meltdown Club)

In Tuesday’s primary, Stevens will face Abdul El-Sayed, who is campaigning on an anti-establishment platform. El-Sayed has been endorsed by independent Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, Democrat Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, and Democrat New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

El-Sayed’s campaign page lists policy goals such as abolishing ICE, “Supreme Court Reform,” abolishing the filibuster, taxing billionaires, and Medicare for all.

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

The campaign teams for El-Sayed and Stevens did not respond to a request for comment prior to publication.