US Midterms: Democrats Rally Behind Abdul El-Sayed Amid Attacks
By NGN News English | November 2, 2026
WASHINGTON — With just one day remaining before the 2026 US midterm elections, Democratic leaders are rallying behind Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed as he faces political attacks and divisions within his own party.
The Michigan Senate race has become one of the closely watched contests in the country because its outcome could influence which party controls the US Senate. El-Sayed, a progressive Democrat and former public health official, is facing Republican candidate Mike Rogers.
Former President Barack Obama, independent Senator Bernie Sanders and other prominent Democrats have appeared alongside El-Sayed during the campaign. Their support marks a significant show of unity following a divisive Democratic primary earlier this year.
However, the party has faced a new dispute after Democratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens, who lost the primary to El-Sayed, endorsed Republican candidate Mike Rogers on Sunday. Stevens cited disagreements with El-Sayed, including their differing positions on Israel.
The endorsement prompted criticism from Democratic leaders. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer described Stevens’s decision as a betrayal and reaffirmed his support for El-Sayed. Michigan Democratic Party officials and other supporters also criticised her move.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has repeatedly targeted El-Sayed during campaign appearances, using inflammatory language about his Muslim faith and political views. El-Sayed has rejected the attacks and argued that the campaign should focus on issues affecting Michigan residents, including the cost of living, healthcare and economic opportunities.
The Republican campaign has also criticised El-Sayed’s progressive positions and associations with political commentators. El-Sayed has responded by emphasising his policy agenda and his commitment to representing Michigan voters.
The 2026 midterm elections will take place on Tuesday, November 3. All 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 Senate seats are being contested, making the results important for the balance of power in Washington.
As Election Day approaches, the Michigan contest highlights both the political divisions within the Democratic Party and the broader national debate over the direction of American politics.
NGN News English
