Washington — Jewish leaders in Michigan initiated a campaign urging Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed and others to affirm their commitment to Jewish safety and their stance on Israel. The petition demands action from candidates or risks losing their support.
Rabbi Josh Whinston, one of the petition’s leaders, expressed concerns over the political pressures facing the American Jewish community. He highlighted the divide in political support, with the community feeling pressured from both political sides.
Abdul El-Sayed, a former Michigan health official, recently secured the Democratic nomination after a contentious primary, partly due to his criticism of Israel and AIPAC. He’s been clear that his criticisms do not equate to criticism of Jewish people, emphasizing his reverence for Judaism.
El-Sayed faces Republican candidate Mike Rogers in November. Rogers, having run unopposed, has concentrated on the general election. Meanwhile, El-Sayed works to unify Democrats after endorsements from prominent left-wing politicians. He is criticized for connections with Hasan Piker, whose anti-Israel comments have stirred controversy.
The petition, representing 40,000 Jewish Michiganders, emphasizes established Democratic support but insists that the party earn this backing. It asks candidates to commit to Jewish safety, Israeli sovereignty, and full participation of Jewish individuals in American political life.
Rabbi Whinston stresses the importance of making Jewish community needs clear and urges Dr. El-Sayed to create meaningful coalitions. Despite ongoing dialogue, Rabbi Whinston remains dissatisfied with El-Sayed’s recent statements, although he acknowledges El-Sayed’s efforts.
El-Sayed reiterates his commitment to addressing any form of antisemitism and publicly dissociates from Piker’s comments. However, Rabbi Whinston remains concerned about El-Sayed’s past rhetoric and its implications.
Rabbi Aaron Starr, leading the Michigan Board of Rabbis, encourages further bridging of understanding and hopes that elected Senators will condemn violent rhetoric against Jewish people and support Israel’s right to exist.
The Michigan Senate race holds significant implications for national political control, with both parties vying for majority. Historically, Michigan has not elected a Republican Senator since 1994, making the race highly competitive.
Starr and Whinston note ongoing indecision among their congregations regarding the upcoming election, with many feeling politically homeless. They call for dialogue and action from candidates to restore confidence and inclusion in the political process.
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