Michigan Jews divided after El-Sayed’s Senate election
Prior to Election Day, more than 560 Jews in the state had signed a petition that pledged to vote for Mike Rogers explicitly because of concerns over Abdul El-Sayed’s rhetoric.
The Michigan Jewish community finds itself divided following Abdul El-Sayed's surprising victory in the state's US Senate race. While many traditional pro-Israel Jewish institutions endorsed Democrat opponent Elissa Slotkin, a significant number of left-leaning Jews rallied behind El-Sayed, who has been vocal in his criticism of Israel and associations with far-left figures.
Some prominent Michigan Jewish leaders, such as Rabbi Asher Lopatin, initially campaigned for Republican nominee Mike Rogers, but now face the challenge of building relationships with a senator they have publicly opposed. Progressive Jewish organizations, like Michigan Jews for Democracy, are seeking to broaden the Jewish tent to include El-Sayed supporters, while others are grappling with how to reconcile their differing viewpoints on Israel and politics.
The election of El-Sayed has sparked conversations about the future of the Jewish vote in Michigan and the potential for greater inclusivity within the state's Jewish community.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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