Abdul El-Sayed built his campaign around a progressive platform that championed Medicare for All alongside a call to end United States military aid to Israel. The 42-year-old epidemiologist secured the seat despite his former primary opponent, Representative Haley Stevens, crossing party lines to endorse Mike Rogers just days before the election. Arab and Muslim communities celebrated the milestone, which brought Arabic cultural expressions into mainstream political rhetoric. During his victory speech, El-Sayed directly addressed national critics, noting that Vice President JD Vance will constitutionally be required to swear him into office this January.
Key points
Democrats secured control of both chambers of Congress during the November 3 midterm elec…: Democrats secured control of both chambers of Congress during the November 3 midterm elections with the aid of this Michigan victory.
Donald Trump targeted the progressive candidate with attacks invoking the September 11 at…: Donald Trump targeted the progressive candidate with attacks invoking the September 11 attacks and labeling him a communist and a jihadist.
The incoming senator will be constitutionally sworn into office by Vice President JD Vanc…: The incoming senator will be constitutionally sworn into office by Vice President JD Vance during the official ceremony this January.
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Abdul El-Sayed’s historic election as the first Muslim American to the US Senate has sparked celebrations among Arab communities, with supporters across the US and the Middle East embracing his use of Arabic expressions such as “habibi” and “inshallah” in American political discourse.
El-Sayed, the son of Egyptian immigrants, drew widespread attention with his victory speech, in which he mocked US Vice President JD Vance over his earlier criticism of the Democratic candidate. Addressing Vance, he said, “JD, habibi,” before pointing out that the vice president would be constitutionally required to swear him in when the Senate convenes in January.
“Habibi”, which literally means “my beloved”, is commonly used as a term of affection and can also mean “buddy” or “pal” in everyday conversation. The expression became a popular campaign slogan, with supporters wearing T-shirts bearing the words “Habibi for Abdul”.
El-Sayed also spoke about how his campaign had turned “inshallah”, meaning “God willing”, into “hamdulillah”, or “thank God”, following his election victory. His use of Arabic expressions resonated with supporters, prompting celebrations and a wave of social media posts…
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The physician and former Detroit health director defeated Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan's high-stakes Senate contest. His historic victory sends the first Muslim member to the United States Senate despite sustained attacks on his faith and heritage throughout the campaign. By engaging directly with Muslim Americans and championing progressive economic issues, his win proves national candidates can achieve electoral success without compromising their cultural identity.