In response to recent concerns from the Jewish community in Michigan, liberal Jewish leaders have urged the state’s Democratic Party and its U.S. Senate nominee to foster an inclusive environment for Jewish residents who feel uneasy about recent discussions.
Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic candidate, has been encouraged by the group Nonnegotiable Michigan to be mindful of his criticisms of Israel and its supporters in the United States.
Rabbi Josh Whinston from Temple Beth Emeth in Ann Arbor highlighted that the use of terms such as “bloodthirsty” to describe the Israeli administration could perpetuate antisemitic stereotypes.
“There are people he could influence, that would do us harm because of those kinds of comments, that do not make the distinction that he’s trying to make between Israel and the Jews. People do not hear that on the far ends of the spectrum,” Rabbi Whinston expressed during a press event introducing the coalition.
Nonnegotiable Michigan has outlined five key expectations for the Michigan Democratic Party and El-Sayed’s campaign: advocating for Jewish safety, self-identity, sovereignty in Israel, political rights, and a hopeful future for the Middle East.
Rabbi Aaron Starr of Congregation Shaarey Zedek voiced his concern over the frequent criticism directed at Israel compared to other countries.
“When the only Jewish state in the entire world … a tiny sliver of the Middle East … is singled out, as opposed to all the bad actors in the entire world, we can’t help but hear antisemitism,” Starr stated.
The Zioness Action Fund, a platform for progressive Jews who also support Zionism, backs Nonnegotiable Michigan. This new initiative draws similarities to the 2024 Uncommitted Movement, which called upon President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to cease support for Israeli military actions in Gaza. While El-Sayed endorsed this movement, he later supported Harris in her presidential campaign.
While the Uncommitted Movement sought greater representation for pro-Palestinian voices, Rabbi Whinston wants Nonnegotiable Michigan to ensure the Jewish community remains included.
Rabbi Whinston clarified he is not asking El-Sayed to alter his beliefs.
“Broaden the tent, Dr. El-Sayed. That’s what I’m asking. Broaden the tent, find a way to thread this needle. Be in communication with us and let’s figure this out together. It will be important,” Whinston remarked in an interview.
The El-Sayed campaign has not issued a comment on the matter. However, El-Sayed has been making efforts to mend ties with Jewish Democrats who opposed him in the recent primary elections.
El-Sayed, a Muslim and former public health official, has expressed that his family has faced bias due to their faith. He has also stated his concern for Jewish safety, akin to his concern for his daughters. He has apologized for past comments deemed hurtful by meeting with Jewish leaders.
In contrast, Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers has been actively reaching out to Jewish voters, aiming to gain their support for his campaign.
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