El-Sayed distances from Piker comments

Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in United States — Michigan, distanced himself from progressive commentator Hasan Piker after Piker suggested on a livestream that pro-Israel rhetoric could lead to backlash against American Jews. Piker argued that opposing Israel is not antisemitic and criticized Jewish institutions for portraying Jews as monolithic, warning that such rhetoric could eventually lead to action against American Jews. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries condemned the remarks as dangerous and antisemitic. El-Sayed issued a statement denouncing antisemitism and affirming the right to advocate without fear of violence, while emphasizing that no one speaks for his campaign. Jeremy Moss, a Jewish Democratic candidate for U.S. House in United States — Michigan, also rejected Piker's comments. Republican opponent Mike Rogers (Alabama politician) criticized El-Sayed's response as inadequate. The controversy could complicate El-Sayed's campaign in a battleground state.