Abdul El-Sayed, a left-wing political outsider and former public health official, has won the Democratic Senate primary in Michigan, highlighting deep divisions within the party. He defeated moderate four-term Democratic congresswoman Haley Stevens, who is staunchly pro-Israel and supports unconditional US aid to Israel.

El-Sayed has voiced support for progressive causes such as universal healthcare and the abolition of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. He also called for ending unconditional US military aid to Israel.

If confirmed as the primary winner, El-Sayed will face Republican and Trump ally Mike Rogers in the November midterm elections. El-Sayed, the son of Egyptian immigrants, would become the first Muslim US senator if elected.

The Michigan Senate race is critical as the upcoming elections will determine the balance of power in Washington during the last two years of President Donald Trump's term. Michigan remains a key swing state, having voted for Democrat Joe Biden in 2020 but for Trump in 2024.

After a bruising campaign, El-Sayed urged unity among supporters, stating, "Whatever happens tonight, we have a responsibility to ensure that we unite, unite to make sure that [Republican] Mike Rogers never sees the inside of the US Senate."

Sources