Senate hopeful El-Sayed faces backlash over deleted anti-fireworks videos
Democratic Senate nominee Abdulrahman Mohamed El-Sayed was criticized for a removed YouTube video in which he questioned Fourth of July fireworks and suggested replacing the Second Amendment with a health-care right.
After defeating Rep. Haley Stevens in the Michigan Democratic Senate primary, Abdulrahman Mohamed El-Sayed drew fire for a deleted YouTube video that condemned traditional Fourth of July fireworks, citing pollution, chemical hazards, PTSD risks for veterans, and dangers to pets and children. The same video included a proposal to swap the Second Amendment for a constitutional guarantee of health care. Additional removed clips showed him downplaying the southern border as a top concern and criticizing Republican focus on immigration.
Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers and Senator Tom Cotton have used the footage to portray El-Sayed as a radical, accusing him of supporting policies such as defunding police and abolishing ICE. Supporters, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, argue his positions represent the future of American politics.
Why it matters
The controversy highlights how past online statements can shape voter perceptions in a pivotal Senate race.
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