Full Breakdown
Controversial Sermons, a Senate Primary, and the Fallout in Michigan
8/8/2026, 6:26:19 AM
Controversial Sermons and Political Mobilization
According to Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) footage, Shi’ite cleric Mohammad Baqer Qazwini delivered a July 17 sermon at the Islamic Institute of America in Dearborn Heights in which he celebrated the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham and asked worshippers to pray for President Donald Trump’s death. In a July 31 address, Qazwini added that Muslim men and women had a “responsibility” to elect Abdul El-Sayed because he was Muslim and would support issues important to U.S. Muslims. His brother, Hassan Qazwini, also urged voters in a July 24 sermon, describing support for El-Sayed as a “moral responsibility” and accusing a “pro-Israel lobby” of trying to influence Michigan voters (Washington Free Beacon).
Primary Outcome and Campaign Context
El-Sayed, a 41-year-old physician and former Detroit health director, narrowly defeated Rep. Haley Stevens in the Democratic primary held on July 31, securing the nomination for the U.S. Senate race that will determine Senate control in November. If elected, he would become the first Muslim U.S. senator. El-Sayed’s campaign framed his Israel policy as opposition to unconditional U.S. military aid, extending the stance to Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Official and Candidate Responses
El-Sayed has repeatedly rejected accusations that his criticism of Israel is antisemitic, calling Jewish voters his “sisters and brothers” and pledging to protect their safety. After a donor’s antisemitic post surfaced, his campaign refunded the contribution and condemned all antisemitic or racist remarks. In response to a March attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, El-Sayed said “nothing justified the attack” and affirmed his defense of Jewish rights.
Criticism and Opposition
Rabbi Jen Lader labeled El-Sayed’s comment that “hurt people hurt people” as “offensive,” arguing that a Michigan synagogue attack cannot be explained by overseas actions. State Rep.
Data and Facilities
The Islamic Institute’s new Dearborn Heights campus, dedicated on June 6, cost roughly $16 million and includes a mosque that can hold more than 1,100 worshippers, along with educational and community spaces. The complex was highlighted during El-Sayed’s appearance at the dedication, where he called the event an “honor and a privilege.”
