Election 2026 First Muslim Senator
- Julia Demaree Nikhinson - AP
- Updated
Supporters cheer as Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed departs a campaign cookout, Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026, in Pontiac, Mich.
Julia Demaree Nikhinson - APAs featured on
Michigan Democrat Abdul El-Sayed has become the first Muslim elected to the U.S. Senate — a significant milestone for Muslim Americans. El-Sayed's victory is seen as a rejection of anti-Muslim rhetoric. President Donald Trump and other Republicans had targeted El-Sayed with accusations and fearmongering. On Wednesday, El-Sayed's win over Republican rival Mike Rogers was confirmed. Council on American-Islamic Relations national executive director Nihad Awad calls it a historic defeat for the politics of hate. El-Sayed says his critics “tried to demonize people because of how they pray." El-Sayed hopes his election will encourage Americans who feel unrepresented in national politics.
BEIRUT (AP) — From Michigan to the Middle East, Arabs are celebrating Abdul El-Sayed’s elect…
