Michigan Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El‑Sayed has publicly separated himself from top supporter and Twitch streamer Hasan Piker following remarks that linked support for Israel with potential violence against American Jews.
Statement from the campaign
El‑Sayed said, “I want to be crystal clear, nobody speaks for this campaign besides me and my campaign spokespeople.” The comment came after Piker, who endorsed El‑Sayed and appeared at campaign events, warned that if Jews in America continue to be portrayed as singularly invested in Israel, “someone is going to come around and take action, not against the state of Israel, mind you, but against American Jews.”
Reactions from opponents and community leaders
Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers seized on the comments, posting on social media that the remarks were “absolutely disgusting” and urging El‑Sayed to disavow Piker. Democratic Rep. Hillary Scholten called Piker “a hack who thrives on hate.” A Detroit‑area rabbi, Asher Lopatin, joined Rogers in condemning the association, describing Piker as a “vicious antisemite and racist.”
El‑Sayed’s response on safety and values
El‑Sayed emphasized his commitment to protecting all Americans, stating, “My commitment to Jewish safety is the same as my commitment to the safety of my own daughters. Antisemitism is a scourge, and we need to address it in all its forms.” He added that he believes all citizens should be able to advocate for their beliefs without fear of violence.
Campaign focus moving forward
While the controversy has dominated recent coverage, El‑Sayed said his campaign will focus on issues that matter to Michiganders: gas prices, groceries, quality schools, and health care. He also highlighted his background as a former Wayne County health director and his historic potential to become the nation’s first Muslim senator.
Broader context
The race pits El‑Sayed against former Republican Rep. Mike Rogers in a battleground Senate contest. Rogers is courting disaffected Democrats, particularly Jewish voters uneasy with El‑Sayed’s criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and his association with Piker. An open letter from some Michigan Jewish leaders urges support for Rogers, though the Michigan Democratic Jewish Caucus has declined to endorse any candidate.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
