Trump attacks Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on MyJoyOnline
Donald Trump called Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic Senate candidate in Michigan, a “jihadist” and referred to the 11 September attacks at a rally. Political figures condemned the remarks as Islamophobic, while El-Sayed responded at a rally, MyJoyOnline reports.
Donald Trump called Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic candidate for the US Senate in Michigan, a “jihadist” at a rally held in the state on Sunday. The US president also referred to the 11 September attacks and said El-Sayed should have to pass through a metal detector to enter the Senate, MyJoyOnline reports.
Critics denounced the remarks as Islamophobic. El-Sayed responded at his own rally: “I’ll be Senator Mohamed for you, my brother,” referring to Trump’s use of his middle name. Senator Bernie Sanders, who was with him, said his opponents were resorting to Islamophobia because they had no arguments on the substantive issues.
El-Sayed will face Republican Mike Rogers on 3 November. The seat is currently held by the Democrats and could help determine the balance of power in Congress. A doctor and former public health official, El-Sayed was born in the United States to Egyptian parents and would become the first Muslim elected to the Senate if he won.
The remarks came a day after Barack Obama criticised Donald Trump in speeches related to the midterm elections, particularly over the cost of living and corruption. On 26 October, Trump also commented on Nicki Minaj’s appearance at a rally in Michigan.
