Dearborn pastor warns Michigan Senate candidate of potential influence on federal judges

Pastor Lorenzo Sewell of Detroit’s 180 Church told Fox News Digital that if Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed were elected, he could recommend federal judges to the president, which Sewell said might lead to the implementation of Sharia law in the United States.

El-Sayed’s spokeswoman, Roxie Richner, responded that while the candidate follows his personal faith, he opposes any effort to incorporate religious law into U.S. statutes. She described Sewell’s remarks as “cheap attacks and hateful rhetoric.”

Sewell also questioned El-Sayed’s medical credentials, noting the candidate earned an M.D. from Columbia University but did not complete a residency or hold a medical license. He linked the candidate to other Muslim-American elected officials, suggesting they aim to “conquer” rather than assimilate into American culture.

The pastor, who previously gained attention for a speech at a Dearborn city-council meeting, warned that Christian ministers and “patriots” must oppose what he termed the spread of Sharia law. He also criticized El-Sayed’s association with streamer Hasan Piker, labeling Piker’s comments as extremist.

El-Sayed has previously stated that he lives by the rules of his faith but opposes any attempt by religious groups to embed their laws in U.S. legislation. The candidate’s campaign has distanced itself from Piker’s controversial statements and reaffirmed a commitment to protecting all Americans, including Jewish communities.