During a CNN interview, Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed faced tough questions about his views on Israel’s right to exist and past social media posts related to defunding the police.
When asked about Israel’s right to exist, El-Sayed pointed to the significant role of AIPAC in the election. He emphasized that the debate often focuses more on spending U.S. tax dollars abroad rather than investing at home. El-Sayed questioned why his stance on Palestine’s right to exist wasn’t similarly scrutinized. He highlighted the need for a political approach that ensures equal rights for all, including Jews, Israelis, and Palestinians.
El-Sayed said, “Israel exists. The question is whether we want a politics where our money is sent over to Israel to fund genocide and apartheid instead of investing in our own kids.” He argued that the focus should be on ensuring everyone has equal rights to peace and self-determination.
The CNN host asked him repeatedly if Israel has a right to exist. El-Sayed responded by questioning whether the focus should be on basic human rights and the appropriate use of tax dollars.
The interview also touched on El-Sayed’s previous social media posts supporting the defund the police movement. CNN brought up a deleted 2020 post where El-Sayed criticized excessive police funding at the expense of other public services like education and health. El-Sayed defended his record, citing his contributions as a former director of health and human services in Michigan. He emphasized the need for balanced funding, focusing on systems that genuinely protect people.
El-Sayed also criticized the media’s focus on statements from 2020, suggesting they serve more for clicks than for substantive political discourse. He argued for a focus on issues such as healthcare, housing, and corporate influence in politics, which he feels are more pressing for Michigan voters.