Abdul El-Sayed, the Michigan Democratic Senate nominee, faces criticism ahead of his appearance at the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) annual convention during Labor Day weekend. El-Sayed is under the spotlight due to his connections with controversial figures and past remarks.
The convention’s speaker list includes individuals with histories of contentious statements. Among these attendees is Baqir Berry, a cleric who has publicly prayed for the success of Islamist fighters in Palestine and Lebanon. He has appealed for divine assistance in granting them “a mighty victory.” Another speaker is Hassan Qazwini, known for his appeal to support Iran, recognized by the U.S. as a state sponsor of terrorism.
Also appearing is Yasir Qadhi, a Texas imam who had previously made Holocaust-denialist remarks, although he later disavowed them. Siraj Wahhaj, named in connection with the 1993 World Trade Center terrorism case, but never charged, is scheduled to speak too.
“We pray to Allah to save our people in South Lebanon from the evil of these Zionists, to support the Muslims and the mujahideen on His path in the East and the West, especially our mujahideen in Palestine, Lebanon, and everywhere,” Berry declared in a sermon.
El-Sayed’s participation links him to divisive political and religious figures, raising debate on his candidacy.
In addition to these controversies, El-Sayed’s campaign reportedly received over $100,000 from members associated with alleged terrorist ties. He has also come under fire for his support from a Detroit-area pastor who has praised the antisemitic Louis Farrakhan.
El-Sayed’s association with streamer Hasan Piker, known for claiming that “America deserved 9/11,” has provoked further scrutiny. El-Sayed labeled Piker’s comment as “dumb” but chose not to sever ties with him. Additionally, El-Sayed defended a blog post comparing President Trump’s involvement in the Capitol riot to Osama bin Laden’s role in the 9/11 attacks.
His campaign did not fulfill requests for comment regarding the recent scrutiny. This scrutiny from Republicans stems from concerns over his past associations and statements.