Abdul El-Sayed secured a historic victory in Michigan’s Senate race on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, becoming the first Muslim elected to the United States Senate. The Democratic candidate defeated Republican former Representative Mike Rogers, ensuring the seat remained in Democratic hands. As reported by Anadolu Agency and USA Today, El-Sayed won the election to become a senator for the state of Michigan.
The victory follows a contentious campaign where El-Sayed’s faith became a focal point. Throughout the race, he faced repeated criticism from Donald Trump and other Republican figures regarding his religious background. El-Sayed, a medical doctor and former public health official, consistently dismissed allegations linking him to extremism. In 2017, he had previously stated to ABC News, Saya mencalonkan diri untuk menjadi gubernur Michigan dan kebetulan saya seorang Muslim.
During his 2026 campaign, he gained support from various Jewish leaders, including former senator Al Franken and over 24 other prominent American Jewish figures who backed his bid in September 2026.
El-Sayed Addresses Trump and Vance in Victory Speech
In an emotional speech delivered early Wednesday morning in Detroit, El-Sayed directly addressed his political opponents. Donald, listen, I know you have trouble saying my name,
El-Sayed said. So, after JD swears me in this January, you can just call me ‘Senator’.
The senator-elect also remarked, Nama saya Abdulrahman Mohammed El-Sayed dan saya bangga dan merasa terhormat menjadi senator terpilih Anda dari Negara Bagian Michigan.
He was joined on stage by his wife, Sarah Jukaku, a psychiatrist of Indian descent whom he married in May 2006, and their two daughters, Emmalee, 8, and Serene, 3.
El-Sayed Runs on Healthcare and Reform Platform
El-Sayed’s campaign focused on a three-point platform: removing money from politics, putting money in people’s pockets, and healthcare for all. Throughout the contest, he challenged Mike Rogers on his support for the Trump administration’s policies, including those involving international trade and conflicts. He also criticized Rogers for supporting military actions against Iran, which he linked to sharply rising fuel prices.
His path to the Senate was marked by personal and professional milestones. Born in Michigan on October 31, 1984, he is the son of Mohamed El-Sayed, who was born in Alexandria, Egypt, in 1951 and arrived in the U.S. in 1979 to pursue a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering at Wayne State University. His mother, Fatten Fathy Mohamed (El-Komy), was also born in Egypt in 1960 and graduated from the Alexandria University School of Medicine in 1983. In his autobiography, Healing Politics: A Doctor’s Journey Into the Heart, El-Sayed noted, Saya punya saudara, Osama dan Samia, dan kami dibesarkan oleh seorang imigran dari Mesir dan seorang Puteri Revolusi Amerika.
Having lived with his father and stepmother, he began using the shortened name Abdul. Following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, he faced discrimination, including an incident where he was mocked for his Arab heritage while playing sports. One of his stepmother’s grandmothers served as a deacon in the Presbyterian Church.
Aber Kawas Wins Historic Seat in New York
Alongside El-Sayed, Aber Kawas made history in the 2026 midterm elections by becoming the first hijab-wearing Palestinian-American woman elected to the New York state legislature. As reported by the New York Times and Middle East Eye, Kawas secured 75 percent of the vote with 90 percent of precincts reporting.
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Political Trends for Muslim Candidates in 2026
The success of El-Sayed and Kawas reflects a trend of Muslim candidates winning office in the 2026 midterms. Kompas.com reports that at least 10 Muslim politicians secured seats across various levels of government, including seven in the U.S. Congress and three in state senates. These victories include the re-election of Representative Rashida Tlaib in Michigan’s 12th Congressional District, who defeated Republican challenger James Hooper. Tlaib, who was previously seen at a press conference at the Capitol on December 17, 2024, won her seat on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Abbas Alawieh was elected to the Michigan State Senate for the 2nd District, representing Dearborn and surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the first Muslim senator in U.S. history?
Abdul El-Sayed became the first Muslim elected to the U.S. Senate following his victory in the Michigan midterm election on November 4, 2026.
What is the professional background of Abdul El-Sayed?
El-Sayed is a medical doctor who previously served as the head of the Detroit Health Department and as the director of health, human services, and veterans for Wayne County, resigning in April 2025 to focus on his campaign.
Did other Muslim candidates win office in the 2026 midterms?
Yes, at least 10 Muslim politicians won seats during the 2026 election cycle, including candidates for the U.S. Regarding the broader atmosphere, Denise Murphy McGraw, a leader of Catholics Vote Common Good, stated, Iman Katolik kami tidak mengajarkan untuk takut kepada tetangga hanya karena mereka beribadah dengan cara berbeda.
Earlier coverage: 1st Muslim Elected to the US Senate: Abdul El-Sayed Wins Seat