Abdul El-Sayed becomes first Muslim Arab-American elected to U.S. Senate

Democrat Abdul El-Sayed will become the first Muslim of Arab descent elected to the U.S. Senate, projected to defeat Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan, according to CNN. He takes office in January. El-Sayed's victory in the battleground state is a win for the Democratic Party's progressive wing, keeping the retiring Gary Peters' seat in Democratic hands. The 42-year-old physician campaigned on free public healthcare, taxing large fortunes, and regulating capitalism. The former Detroit health director won despite a bitter primary and last-minute opposition from moderate Democrat Haley Stevens. He has drawn controversy for past statements on Israel, police funding, and the Second Amendment, while gaining support from the "Squad" and using social media to connect with young men.