In Michigan, Abdul El-Sayed overcomes party betrayal and massive megadonor blitz to win Senate seat

A breakthrough in Michigan

El-Sayed, the son of Egyptian immigrants, has never held elected office. Eight years after losing Michigan’s Democratic gubernatorial primary by double digits, he has won a U.S. Senate seat.

The race drew national attention after two-term Democratic Senator Gary Peters decided not to seek reelection. El-Sayed’s victory gives the Democratic Party’s left wing a significant win in a state viewed as a major battleground.

Spending and a divided primary

El-Sayed emerged from a bruising August primary against Representative Haley Stevens, who had backing from the party establishment. Outside groups spent nearly $60 million during the contest, including nearly $30 million from AIPAC opposing El-Sayed.

Stevens later endorsed Rogers on November 1, saying El-Sayed had not sufficiently addressed her concerns and those of the Jewish community. The endorsement deepened questions about whether he could unite Democrats after the primary.

Campaign message and criticism

El-Sayed’s platform included Medicare for All, a government-run single-payer system, and a call to remove outside money from elections. He also sharply criticized Israel, drawing objections from some members of Michigan’s Jewish community.

After an attack on a Michigan synagogue earlier this year, El-Sayed said “hurt people hurt people,” then apologized to people who felt his remarks were hurtful. His appearances with political streamer Hasan Piker also drew criticism over Piker’s comments about Israel, Jews and the September 11 attacks.

Progressives look toward 2028

The result gives progressives a prominent example to cite as they look toward the 2028 presidential election. It also offers evidence that candidates running on their agenda can win in competitive states.