Michigan Senate Candidate Discusses Israel-Palestine Issue
During a recent appearance on CNN’s “The Arena,” Abdul El-Sayed, a Democratic candidate for the Michigan state Senate, was asked about Israel’s right to exist. He stated, “The real question is whether we want to allocate funds to Israel that facilitate genocide and apartheid instead of investing in our own children.” El-Sayed emphasized that he wouldn’t engage in the debate regarding Israel’s existence, but he was open to discussing the rights of Palestinian people and his commitments to Michigan’s youth.
Host Casey Hunt pointed out that Israel has become a significant topic, particularly within the Democratic Party and in relation to AIPAC’s influence. She pressed El-Sayed on whether he believes Israel has a right to exist.
“AIPAC plays a major role in this election, having already spent $30 million,” El-Sayed replied. “On the matter of existence, it’s an interesting question. In every administration I’ve been a part of, there has been support for a two-state solution. The focus should be on whether we prefer to fund Israel while ignoring our own needs.” He reiterated that the question of whether Israel has a right to exist often overshadows the critical issue of Palestinian rights.
Hunt then asked El-Sayed to clarify his stance on Israel’s right to exist.
El-Sayed responded, “I never claimed that. What I said is that the existence of Israel is not the main issue. The real matter is whether we want a political environment that honors equal rights for all.” He expressed his reluctance to engage in what he deemed a “messy game” over this question.
Hunt interjected, seeking clarity, “So, you won’t address those contentious topics, but do you agree that Israel has a right to exist?”
El-Sayed countered by rephrasing the question: “The key question we should be asking is if everyone—Jews, Israelis, and Palestinians—has the equal right to peace, dignity, and self-determination. The ultimate solution should include all groups. Personally, I believe our tax dollars should be invested in Michigan—improving schools and healthcare—rather than funding violence abroad. The debate over Israel’s existence is secondary to how we prioritize our resources.” He added that AIPAC and Israel have become less central to the conversation than how domestic funds are allocated, urging that more attention should be given to the needs within Michigan.
