Michigan Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed is facing criticism for his planned participation in a rally with Hasan Piker, a streamer known for anti-Israel commentary. Piker has been controversial for saying “America deserved 9/11” and justifying the attacks on October 7th. El-Sayed is also under scrutiny for comments related to the Ayatollah’s death in Dearborn and his stance on defunding ICE, sparking debates on cancel culture and border enforcement.
El-Sayed is scheduled to speak at the Islamic Society of North America’s annual convention during Labor Day weekend. This event includes speakers like cleric Baqir Berry, who has prayed for “mujahideen” victories in Palestine and Lebanon. Berry used terminology often linked to Islamist fighters, asking for divine support. Hassan Qazwini, head of the Islamic Institute of America, will also be present, known for appealing to God for “victory to our brothers in Iran,” which is recognized as a state sponsor of terrorism by the U.S.
Other controversial figures at the convention include Texas imam Yasir Qadhi, previously linked with Holocaust-denialist ideas, though he later disavowed them. Siraj Wahhaj, named a possible co-conspirator in the 1993 World Trade Center terrorism case without facing charges, is also slated to speak.
El-Sayed’s campaign has received over $100,000 in support from members of a group alleged to have terrorism ties. He recently spoke at a unity rally in Detroit, highlighting his contentious standpoints. Berry has articulated a prayer asking Allah to support Muslims against Zionist foes, wishing for victory across diverse regions.
Senator Bernie Sanders’ 2020 campaign previously denounced Qazwini’s comments linking ISIS to Zionists, accusing him of antisemitic conspiracy theories. Qadhi, Berry, and Qazwini did not respond to inquiries from Fox News Digital.
El-Sayed’s history includes endorsement from a pastor who praised antisemite Louis Farrakhan, infamous for derogatory remarks about Jews. El-Sayed has been criticized for appearances with Piker, labeling Piker’s “9/11” comments as “dumb” but not disavowing Piker himself. He defended a blog post equating Trump’s role in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot with Osama bin Laden’s involvement in Sept. 11.
As the Michigan Senate race progresses, Republican focus on El-Sayed’s ties to controversial figures intensifies. His appearance at the convention has added fuel to political debates. El-Sayed’s campaign declined requests for comments from Fox News Digital regarding these issues.
Leave a Reply