Some Jewish Democrats in Michigan are backing Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers. Michigan’s GOP chair believes this shift will impact Abdul El-Sayed’s chances in the election. Jim Runestad, the Michigan GOP Chairman, mentioned concerns among Jewish donors regarding El-Sayed’s comments and associations. This has reportedly frightened the Jewish community in Michigan.
An open letter signed by around 500 Jewish Democrats and independents in Michigan endorses Rogers as a “friend to the Jewish community.” It warns that El-Sayed’s victory could empower “far-left and anti-Jewish elements” within the Democratic Party.
In the wake of diminishing Jewish support, El-Sayed released a social media video celebrating Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, with two Jewish women. However, their pro-Palestinian activism and unfamiliarity with Hebrew prayers led to criticism. State Rep. Noah Arbit, representing a heavily Jewish area, criticized the move as tokenism.
Jonathan Greenberg, a rabbi combating antisemitism, claimed the video was not aimed at engaging the Jewish community but was a gesture to address concerns about El-Sayed’s perceived bigotry. Even so, the video gained significant engagement on social media platforms.
While El-Sayed risks alienating Jewish voters, the long-term effects on the Democratic Party in Michigan remain uncertain. The open letter for Rogers states support specific to this year’s Senate race, distinct from general support for President Donald Trump. Rogers’ campaign claims success in reaching out to Jewish voters, supported by positive social media feedback and successful fundraisers.
Runestad believes Republicans can attract the Jewish community by aligning on entrepreneurial values, lower taxes, and reduced regulation. However, El-Sayed has strong support from Michigan’s Arab American community, particularly in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights, which could counterbalance these shifts.
The Jewish community is concerned about El-Sayed’s association with Hasan Piker, criticized for antisemitic comments. Runestad highlighted the potential influence of Piker’s controversial remarks on the election. El-Sayed dismissed his connection to Piker, labeling certain accusations as “dumb.” His campaign spokesman, Cole Wozniak, emphasized El-Sayed’s engagement with Jewish leaders and his coalition-building efforts.
In response, liberal Jewish leaders in Michigan gathered over 800 signatures from Jewish residents supporting El-Sayed. While some backers expressed disagreements on foreign policy, El-Sayed remains focused on addressing the community’s concerns, seeking endorsements from Jewish lawmakers and frequently meeting with community members.