DETROIT — A newspaper that received a $500,000 grant from George Soros’ Open Society Foundation published a story in its August 2026 edition that described Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El‑Sayed as a “veteran, doctor, and former health official.” The paper, titled The Michigan Independent, is part of a network of state‑based outlets funded by the Soros‑linked American Independent Foundation.
Paper’s claims and campaign response
The headline read, “El‑Sayed — veteran, doctor, and former health official — is Democratic Senate pick.” The campaign quickly refuted the description, noting that El‑Sayed has never claimed veteran status and, while he holds an M.D., he has never practiced as a physician. Spokesman Cole Wozniak told Fox News Digital, “Abdul has never claimed to be a veteran; he would never do that out of respect for those who served. Outlets should do their homework and not allow this to happen again.”
Soros funding and network reach
The American Independent Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, disclosed a $500,000 grant from the Open Society Foundations in its 2024 IRS Form 990. The foundation’s address — 800 Maine Ave SW, Washington, D.C. — appears on the newspaper’s front cover, underscoring the lack of local independence. The network includes similar papers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Virginia and other swing states, many of which have run identical stories on national issues.
Background on the candidate
Abdul El‑Sayed, a former health official and physician‑assistant, is running for the U.S. Senate seat in Michigan. He has emphasized his public‑health experience and his commitment to families and faith‑based communities throughout the campaign.
Media watchdogs weigh in
Media analysts note that the Soros‑funded network has been used to push progressive narratives in key battleground states ahead of the 2026 midterms. Critics argue that labeling the outlet as “independent” misleads readers about its funding sources and editorial agenda.
The American Independent did not respond to requests for comment.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
