Jewish leaders in Michigan back Republican Rogers, denounce El-Sayed’s leftist campaign
Over 400 Jewish Democrats in Michigan signed a letter supporting Republican Senate hopeful Mike Rogers and saying they feel threatened by left-leaning candidate Abdul El-Sayed.
More than four hundred Jewish Democrats in Michigan have publicly endorsed Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers, arguing that the candidacy of Abdul El-Sayed threatens their community. The open letter, signed by prominent donors like Rob Orley of O2 Investments and religious leaders such as former Temple Israel president Robert Gordon, warns that an El-Sayed victory would empower far-left and anti-Jewish elements within the Democratic Party and affect the 2028 presidential race.
Former Congressman Andy Levin counters that the signatories represent a minority view and suggests the American Israel Political Action Committee is behind the effort. Some signers, including attorney Daniel Cherrin, also cite El-Sayed’s ties to Twitch personality Hasan Piker as a source of concern. Rogers praised the support, saying strong leadership is needed to curb antisemitism, while El-Sayed’s campaign maintains it will keep engaging Jewish communities. The dispute highlights intra-party tensions over ideology, security concerns, and the role of external groups in Michigan’s pivotal Senate contest.
Why it matters
The split shows how identity politics and external lobbying are reshaping a key Senate race in a swing state.
How this story developed
- Aug 18 Mike Rogers courts Jewish Democratic voters in tight Michigan Senate contest
- Aug 20 A Senate primary debate has been set for September 15.
- Aug 27 A recent gathering of Michigan Democrats highlighted lingering divisions over El‑Sayed’s comments on Israel and domestic terrorism.
- Aug 31 Arab‑American leaders in Dearborn publicly endorsed Abdul El‑Sayed.
- Aug 31 Report noted that Arab Christian voters in Michigan tend to lean Republican while Muslim voters have largely backed El‑Sayed.
- Sep 1 Mike Rogers launched a television ad attacking El‑Sayed over past statements on sexual issues and the synagogue attack.
- Sep 1 Senator Bernie Sanders said a limited group of Democratic officials and major donors may prefer El‑Sayed to lose the general election.
- Sep 1 El‑Sayed defended his earlier criticism of Independence Day fireworks on “The Breakfast Club.”
- Sep 2 Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel appealed to Jewish voters to back El‑Sayed.
- Sep 2 El‑Sayed sought forgiveness from Michigan Jewish Democrats at the annual Summer Simcha gathering.
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