Progressive Jewish Leaders Voice Concerns Over El-Sayed’s Comments on Israel
In Michigan’s heated Senate race, U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed’s stance on Israel has sparked debate and drawn criticism from some Jewish leaders. A coalition of progressive Jewish religious figures and Democratic Party members has called for a reconsideration of El-Sayed’s rhetoric regarding Israel.
The group, known as NonNegotiable Michigan, has addressed a letter to former Vice President Kamala Harris, who was campaigning with El-Sayed. The letter urges Harris to discuss these concerns with the candidate, pointing out statements they find troubling.
“Dr. El-Sayed has had every opportunity to meet our request to support our basic needs. So far, he has declined even to respond. He has called Israelis ‘bloodthirsty’ — language that echoes the centuries-old blood libel used to justify violence against Jews. He has spoken of American support for Israel in terms of ‘purchased loyalty,'” the letter states.
Rabbi Michael Moskowitz expressed worry that El-Sayed’s comments might alienate Jewish voters, potentially affecting Democratic prospects in the upcoming election. “I don’t think anyone should assume because you’re a Jew, you are going to vote Democratic,” Moskowitz noted.
El-Sayed’s campaign has highlighted his critical views on the Israeli government’s actions in Gaza and the U.S.’s arms sales to Israel, which have become focal points in the discourse.
Despite the controversy, there is still support for El-Sayed from segments of Michigan’s Jewish community. Michigan Jews for Democracy released a petition with over 600 signatures in favor of El-Sayed, with notable endorsements from former Congressmen Sander and Andy Levin, as well as Jessica Alexander, Chair of the Michigan Democratic Jewish Caucus.
The petition articulates the strategic rationale behind their support, stating, “We understand that a vote is not a valentine; it’s a strategic chess move. Our goal is to reinstate a check on Trump’s power by winning back control of the U.S. Senate.”
As Michigan’s Jewish voters weigh their options, the outcome could be decisive in the race between Republican Mike Rogers and Democrat Abdul El-Sayed. For many, the issue of Israel is deeply personal.
Cantor Regina Hayut expressed feelings of alienation due to the current political climate, stating that many within the Jewish community feel “politically homeless.” She mentioned that some might choose to abstain from voting or skip that section of the ballot entirely.
The El-Sayed campaign has not responded to requests for comments on this issue.
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