Michigan Senate Debate: Rogers Claims Jewish Voters Fear El-Sayed

Rogers claimed that Jewish Democrats are "literally afraid" of El-Sayed due to his "extreme" rhetoric, anger, and division. He stated that these voters are defecting to his campaign because they fear for their children's safety, referencing instances where daughters cannot wear their Star of David on the University of Michigan campus. Rogers also reiterated accusations regarding El-Sayed's family ties to the Muslim Brotherhood, based on past social media posts by El-Sayed's half-sister.

El-Sayed, a vocal critic of Israel, did not directly address Jewish voters during his speaking time but criticized Rogers as an "AIPAC-backed politician" amid reports of significant pro-Israel super PAC funding. Regarding his family, El-Sayed denied any Muslim Brotherhood affiliation, stating his mother was a nurse for a Muslim aid group. A New York Times investigation found his mother was a low-level employee for a group later designated as a supporter of terrorist groups, and that El-Sayed had signed a 2012 letter urging then-Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi to protect minority rights.