Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed criticized CNN during a rally in Grand Rapids on Sunday, July 20th, 2026, describing his appearances on the network as akin to a "non-consensual colonoscopy," a remark that drew laughter from the crowd.

El-Sayed expressed frustration that CNN interviewers focus heavily on foreign issues, particularly his discussions about other countries. He stated, "All they ask me about is another country, and they're like, 'All he's ever talking about is another country.' No! I just want everybody to understand that there's an opportunity cost to the money being sent over there, and that is what we could have over here."

Earlier that day, El-Sayed appeared on CNN's "State of the Union," where anchor Jake Tapper questioned him about leaked audio in which El-Sayed declined to comment on the killing of Iranian Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in February, citing concerns about offending constituents. El-Sayed largely sidestepped the question, calling it a "ridiculous pretext," and instead focused on the recent deaths of three U.S. servicemembers killed by Iranian strikes in Jordan.

Regarding domestic policy, El-Sayed faced scrutiny over his past statements about defunding the police. Rather than addressing the "defund" terminology directly, he advocated for increased investment in libraries, public services, and social services.

El-Sayed is currently rallying significant progressive support in Michigan's Senate race.

CNN did not immediately respond to requests for comment on El-Sayed's remarks or his characterization of his interview experiences.

Sources