Michigan Senate Candidate Abdul El-Sayed Issues Apology to Jewish Voters Amid GOP Criticism
Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed apologized for remarks after a synagogue attack, while Republican rival Mike Rogers called the apology insufficient and highlighted concerns about antisemitism.
Democratic nominee Abdul El-Sayed addressed members of Michigan’s Jewish Caucus on Saturday, offering an apology for comments he made after a March attack on a suburban Detroit synagogue. He said the remarks may have been misunderstood and expressed regret to anyone who was hurt, emphasizing that his intent was to provide context, not to justify the violence.
El-Sayed, an epidemiologist and former Wayne County health director, also met with the state’s Democratic Jewish Caucus and said his commitment to the safety of Jewish communities is the same as his commitment to the safety of his own children. He added that while he and Jewish voters may differ on foreign-policy issues, he will continue to support the safety and dignity of all communities.
Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers, who lost a close race for the seat in 2024, described El-Sayed’s apology as a “sham” and said the Democratic candidate has a history of inflammatory remarks. Rogers cited an open letter from some Michigan Jewish leaders urging support for his campaign, and he told a Fox News interview that many Jewish Democrats have expressed concern about El-Sayed’s positions.
The controversy also involves left-wing streamer Hasan Piker, a vocal supporter of El-Sayed, whose past statements about Israel have drawn criticism. When asked about Piker, El-Sayed said the streamer is not relevant to the Michigan race and that his campaign focuses on local issues such as affordability and health care.
El-Sayed’s campaign announced plans to hire a Jewish liaison, and the candidate reiterated that he will not let disagreements over Israel define his relationship with Jewish voters.