Michigan’s open Senate seat draws a fight

Sen. Gary Peters’s decision not to seek a third term has opened up one of the most closely watched Senate races in the country, and with Michigan’s Aug. 4 primary three weeks away, both parties are settling into their lanes: a narrowing two-person scrap on the Democratic side, and a Republican field that has cleared for one candidate.

The seat matters well beyond Michigan.

Control of the U.S. Senate could hinge on a handful of races like this one, and both parties have treated it accordingly — pouring in national money, national endorsements and national attention.