Democratic nominee Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan is under fire due to his ties with Hasan Piker, a controversial streamer. Piker’s recent remarks about U.S. Jews have prompted significant backlash within the Democratic Party.
Last week, Piker shared an image of Michigan state Sen. Jeremy Moss, who is Jewish and running in the 11th Congressional District. Piker’s comments suggested that American Jews might face violence if they continue to strongly support Israel.
If Jews in America keep putting this idea out there that they are singularly invested in Israel, eventually someone is going to come around and take action, not against the state of Israel, mind you, but against American Jews.
The Democratic response has been swift and critical. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries labeled the comments as “dangerous and antisemitic.” He emphasized that such rhetoric should not be tolerated.
Rep. Brad Schneider called Piker an “unapologetic antisemite,” renewing his call for Democrats to shun those spreading hate. Sen. Elissa Slotkin also condemned any suggestion that Jewish Americans are responsible for the antisemitism they face.
Other Democrats, like Rep. Haley Stevens and Sen. Cory Booker, expressed refusal to associate with Piker or endorse his views. Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow equated Piker’s rhetoric to far-right commentators aiming for attention.
Rep. Josh Gottheimer has been vocal against Piker, comparing his comments to “a call for violence against Jews.” He urges legislative leaders to address antisemitism more strongly.
Notably, Abdul El-Sayed distanced his campaign from Piker, reiterating his opposition to antisemitism. Still, he did not directly condemn Piker, which leaves some Democrats dissatisfied.
Other Democratic figures, including DNC Chair Ken Martin and Sen. Jacky Rosen, have dismissed any notion that American Jews bear blame for antisemitism, reaffirming solidarity in opposition to all forms of hate.
Criticism continues with figures like James Carville and Rep. Ritchie Torres speaking against Piker’s influence and rhetoric. These incidents highlight the broader challenge Democrats face in managing ties with figures holding extreme views.