DETROIT, MICHIGAN — Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Michigan, is experiencing a notable divide among Muslim voters. Some disagree with his stances on abortion and LGBTQ issues, but still plan to vote for him. “He is a Democrat with a Muslim mask,” one attendee at the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) Convention, who wanted to remain anonymous, told Fox News Digital. “Basically he’s like Ilhan Omar, but like a male version.” This attendee, despite objecting to El-Sayed’s positions, expressed a desire for him to be elected to enhance community representation.
Fox News Digital attended the ISNA’s annual conference in Detroit during Labor Day weekend. El-Sayed delivered a keynote speech amid controversy over previous remarks by other speakers. This has intensified scrutiny of his connections to the organization and his political alliances.
El-Sayed supports codifying Roe v. Wade, funding Planned Parenthood, and providing LGBTQ-inclusive sex education. He also backs allowing doctors to perform sex-change operations on minors. Generally, Islamic theology holds more conservative views on these topics, but interpretations vary. A Navy veteran expressed strong opposition to El-Sayed’s views but felt disappointed by the Republican Party after the 2024 elections.
He stated, “I voted for Donald Trump. When it comes to values, I’m a Republican. But unfortunately, they have betrayed us.” He cited the involvement in foreign conflicts and economic issues as reasons for supporting El-Sayed.
Some Muslims who previously supported Trump expressed shifting allegiances due to his foreign policy decisions. Trump’s backing of Israel and military actions in Iran have contributed to growing dissatisfaction.
One conference attendee, shocked by El-Sayed’s support for abortion and LGBTQ rights, remarked, “Wait, he’s supporting LGBTQ? I don’t really think that’s good, especially because this is Islam and it prohibits LGBTQ.” He also criticized abortion, describing it as taking a life.
Discussions around El-Sayed’s social views might affect his support within the Muslim community, especially among older generations. Zubin, a supporter, said, “Abdul El-Sayed’s views may align more with mine than with those of our parents or grandparents. These issues will be talking points within the Muslim community.” Despite differing views, some argue the community will prioritize broader political goals in November.
Fauzi, another conference attendee, believes El-Sayed could positively impact education and healthcare. “5-10% of the issues, people may differ. But we have to look at the big picture,” he said.
Some attendees mentioned interest in a Muslim Republican candidate, though the party’s current reputation may hinder its appeal among Arab Americans. Zubin commented, “If you’re a good politician and running for the Republican party, you can gain support from this community.” Yet skepticism remains, as another attendee noted difficulty for Muslims running as Republicans due to voter biases.
The El-Sayed campaign did not respond to requests for comment when contacted by Fox News Digital.
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