Abdul El-Sayed Makes History as First Muslim Elected to U.S. Senate

Abdul El-Sayed has been elected as the first Muslim to the U.S. Senate, representing Michigan, after a contentious campaign marked by personal attacks and internal party divisions. The 42-year-old epidemiologist, son of Egyptian immigrants, won a narrow primary victory over rival Haley Stevens, who later endorsed his Republican opponent and was expelled from the Democratic Party. El-Sayed campaigned on progressive policies including Medicare for All and higher taxes on the wealthy. His campaign faced controversy over his criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza and his association with left-wing activist Hasan Piker. The pro-Israel lobby AIPAC spent nearly $30 million to oppose his candidacy.