Biden set to rally Dems in Lansing Thurs.

Former Vice President Joe Biden is returning to Michigan on Thursday for a political rally in Lansing to galvanize Democrats ahead of next week's midterm elections. 

Biden was just in Michigan last month to campaign with gubernatorial nominee Gretchen Whitmer in Southfield. 

Thursday's get-out-the-vote rally at Lansing Community College is being hosted by the campaign of Democratic congressional candidate Elissa Slotkin, who is challenging Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Bishop of Rochester in the Nov. 6 election.

Biden previously endorsed Slotkin, who often advised Biden on national security matters when she served in the White House and later as a top defense official at the Pentagon.

“So I know personally what a hard-working member of Congress Elissa would be,” Biden said in a statement.

"We need people like Elissa: She’s a straight shooter who doesn’t just talk about putting country before party — she has a record of it. She’ll fight for every 8th District resident, from seniors to students."

Vice President Mike Pence was in Oakland County Monday urging voters to back Bishop's re-election to continue Trump administration efforts that have included tax cuts and the signing of opioid abuse legislation sponsored by Bishop.

Other speakers at Thursday's rally will include Whitmer, running mate Garlin Gilchrist and U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow of Lansing, who is seeking re-election.

Doors open at 5 p.m. The rally in the Gannon gymnasium is open to the public, but tickets are required. 

mburke@detroitnews.com