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Progressive Abdul El-Sayed wins Michigan Senate race to become first Muslim US senator
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- Abdul El-Sayed has won the Michigan US Senate race, becoming the first Muslim senator in the United States by defeating Republican Mike Rogers.
- El-Sayed's victory contributes to a strengthened Democratic majority in the Senate, following unexpected wins in Texas, Kansas, and South Carolina.
- His campaign faced significant Islamophobic attacks, including accusations from Donald Trump and JD Vance, which El-Sayed condemned as divisive distractions from key issues like the cost of living.
- El-Sayed, a progressive health advocate and former Wayne County health director, promoted Medicare for All and an end to US military aid to Israel, challenging both the Democratic establishment and Republican opposition.
- The race was heavily funded, with over $220 million spent by mid-October, and marked a significant test for progressive candidates in swing states amid intense political polarization.
