El-Sayed visits Jewish Michiganders for Rosh Hashanah meal after accusations of antisemitism

Michigan Democratic Senate contender Dr. Abdul El-Sayed paid a visit to a Jewish household to partake in a Rosh Hashanah meal following a storm of accusations targeting his perceived antisemitism. This occurred in the aftermath of a video showcasing El-Sayed partaking in a meal with Elaine and Missy, a Jewish mother-daughter duo hailing from Michigan.

The video, shared on X/Twitter, depicted El-Sayed conversing with the couple about potential collaborations aimed at fostering a more equitable and harmonious future for their communities in Michigan. El-Sayed conveyed his gratitude by commending Elaine's kugel, a dish passed down from her grandmother's recipe, remarking that it was "just sweet but not overpoweringly so."

The conversation, however, predominantly centered on the culinary aspect. El-Sayed expressed admiration for the kugel, praising its balanced sweetness. In accordance with Rosh Hashanah customs, Elaine recited the blessing over the fruit, involving the customary dipping of apples into honey.

Missy later communicated to El-Sayed her appreciation for various aspects of his stance, particularly his commitment to healthcare. El-Sayed has been actively working to mend relations with Jewish voters in Michigan, despite his stance against a two-state solution in Israel and past controversies, including his response to the attack on the Detroit-area Temple Israel, which have made his candidacy a contentious issue within the community.

In recent times, El-Sayed engaged in a private meeting with rabbis at Temple Israel, following an apology for remarks he made that seemed to downplay the severity of the March attack, according to a report in Jewish Insider. Over 600 Michigan Jews have also signed an open letter expressing their decision to vote for El-Sayed for the US Senate, in an attempt to bolster the Democratic candidate's support among the Jewish population in a closely contested and pivotal election.