Michigan Jewish Leaders Launch Petition
Michigan Jewish leaders have initiated a petition campaign urging Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed and other candidates to commit to Jewish safety and their views towards Israel. The campaign threatens withdrawal of support if these commitments are not made.
Political Context
Abdul El-Sayed secured the Democratic nomination following a heated primary that highlighted his criticisms of the Israeli government and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). El-Sayed clarified that his criticism of AIPAC and Israel does not equate to criticism of Jewish people.
In November, El-Sayed will compete against former GOP Rep. Mike Rogers, who has been preparing for the general election. El-Sayed aims to consolidate Democratic support, having campaigned with endorsement from prominent figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Former Michigan health official El-Sayed faced opposition from Rep. Haley Stevens, who received substantial funding from pro-Israel groups, including a notable $30 million in external spending.
Concerns and Responses
Criticism arose from El-Sayed’s association with controversial podcaster Hasan Piker. El-Sayed has distanced himself, stating he alone speaks for his campaign. After a regrettable comment following an attack on a Detroit synagogue, El-Sayed apologized and addressed the Michigan Democratic Jewish Caucus.
The petition calls for candidates to affirm five nonnegotiables: Jewish safety, individual definition of Jewish identities, Jewish sovereignty in Israel, full participation of Jewish citizens in politics, and a vision for a better Middle East future.
“Every constituency must occasionally remind its party that support is earned, not owed,” the petition states.
Community Concerns
Rabbi Josh Whinston emphasized the need for political clarity and coalition. He expressed concerns about marginalized communities feeling politically homeless. Whinston and others want El-Sayed to be an ally addressing community safety and conveying that their support is indispensable.
Rabbi Aaron Starr welcomed El-Sayed’s efforts in bridging gaps, hoping both candidates, if elected, would condemn rhetoric against Jewish people and Israel. The Michigan Senate race is critical, with control over the Senate in balance.
Electoral Implications
The Michigan Senate race holds significant influence over party control, as Republicans hold 53 seats, needing Democrats to secure four additional seats. The vacancy stems from Democratic Sen. Gary Peters’s decision not to seek reelection. Michigan has not elected a Republican senator since 1994.
Voters remain undecided in Michigan, focused on candidate assurances regarding Jewish community concerns. Rabbi Whinston expressed constituents’ sense of political homelessness, urging Democratic efforts to provide clarity and support.