Michigan Senate Candidate Mike Rogers Declares Intentions

Michigan Republican Senate hopeful Mike Rogers announced that he has “no intention” of entering the race after viewing a video of his opponent, Abdul El-Sayed, where El-Sayed spoke about the necessity of empathy toward terrorists.

El-Sayed, a physician and former health director for Wayne County, is vying for the Democratic nomination in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections for Michigan’s U.S. Senate seat. During a town hall last year, he suggested that understanding the motivations behind terrorism could be crucial, describing the actions as rooted in “pain, frustration, and a lack of agency.”

Rogers expressed concern over what he perceives as radical sentiments from El-Sayed, stating, “It’s alarming to see Democrats making excuses for terrorists. The radicalism here is concerning and seems to be pushing Abdul into the primary limelight.” He pointed to El-Sayed’s failure to refute comments made earlier by Hasan Piker, who controversially stated that “America deserved 9/11.”

In a town hall held in July 2025, El-Sayed faced questions from constituents about his views on addressing terrorism. He acknowledged the necessity of military action against terrorist groups but emphasized the importance of understanding the root causes of their actions.

El-Sayed stated, “We need to explore why these heinous acts occur and what drives individuals to commit them. My background in medicine compels me to consider people’s pain.” He characterizes terrorism as a form of political violence aimed at achieving specific goals.

El-Sayed further reflected on the impact of terrorism, admitting that his own perspective has changed. “I think our global interactions often come across as hypocritical,” he noted, stressing that the U.S. should avoid escalating tensions and instead approach terrorism with empathy. “Wisdom, empathy, and justice are key,” he commented.

El-Sayed, who has criticized Israel’s actions in conflict zones, has previously campaigned alongside internet figure Hasan Piker. Piker has made bold statements against Israel and expressed his support for Hamas. El-Sayed’s campaign platform advocates for Medicare for All and free education, garnering support from figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders.

In the Democratic primary, El-Sayed is up against Rep. Haley Stevens and Sen. Mallory McMorrow. Efforts to elicit responses from both Rogers and El-Sayed regarding these developments yield yet unanswered questions.