Several Jewish Democrats in Michigan have disclosed plans to back Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers if Abdul El-Sayed becomes the Democratic nominee. This news comes as the August 4 primary election approaches. Concerns among Jewish donors have risen due to El-Sayed’s criticism of Israel.
The Jewish Telegraphic Agency reports that prominent Jewish fundraisers are viewing Rogers as a viable option. They are beginning to channel their support and funds toward his campaign. Dennis Bernard, national chair of government relations for Jewish Federations of North America, explained the situation. Some long-time Democratic supporters are worried about the party’s direction.
“If this is the case, they’ve made it clear, both financially and with their vote, that they would support Mike Rogers in the event El-Sayed wins the primary,” Bernard noted.
Neil Gorosh, a retired commercial mortgage banker, shared his sense of uncertainty as a Democrat. Although he won’t fundraise for Rogers, he expressed willingness to vote for him over El-Sayed. Gorosh stated, “If it came down to Mike Rogers and El-Sayed, I will vote for Mike Rogers.”
Other Jewish Democrats are backing El-Sayed’s opponent, Rep. Haley Stevens, for her support of Israel’s right to exist. As one anonymous leader commented, “Anyone who cares about the future of the U.S.-Israel relationship, Democrat or Republican, needs to vote for Haley Stevens in the Democratic primary.”
Shimon Levy, an Israeli-American entrepreneur from Detroit, voiced strong opposition to El-Sayed. He criticized El-Sayed’s stance and rhetoric against the Jewish community. “El-Sayed has done nothing but put Jews at risk and in danger,” Levy remarked.
El-Sayed’s campaign has faced accusations of antisemitism, based on past comments and affiliations. He defended appearing with Hasan Piker, who has made controversial statements favoring Hamas over Israel. El-Sayed has also avoided clear statements about Israel’s right to exist and compared its actions to those of Hamas.
Fox News Digital sought comments from El-Sayed’s campaign but did not receive a response in time. Concern remains high among Jewish voters regarding El-Sayed’s views and their impact on the Jewish community.