Wednesday 04 Nov 2026
Abdul El-Sayed. (Photo/EPA)
Democrat Abdul El-Sayed has become the first Muslim elected to the US Senate, defeating former Republican congressman Mike Rogers in Michigan's closely watched race, according to US media projections.
The former public health official secured the seat vacated by retiring Democratic Senator Gary Peters.
He will take office when the new Congress convenes in January.
Faith becomes campaign flashpoint
El-Sayed's Muslim faith became a central issue during the campaign, with President Donald Trump and other Republicans repeatedly targeting his religious background.
El-Sayed rejected allegations linking him to extremism.
His victory marks a historic breakthrough in a state Trump narrowly won in the 2024 presidential election. It also preserves a key Democratic-held Senate seat.
Egyptian American breaks historic barrier
The 42-year-old Egyptian American's victory marks a milestone for Muslim political representation in the United States.
His campaign exposed divisions within the Democratic Party, particularly over healthcare, economic priorities and US support for Israel.
El-Sayed emerged as an outspoken critic of American military aid to Israel. He described Israel's war on Gaza as genocide and called for an end to unconditional US military support.
His position on Israel became a major source of controversy during the campaign.
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Source: TRT
