El-Sayed’s Perspective on Immigration
Abdul El-Sayed, a Michigan Democrat Senate candidate, referred to illegal immigrants as “undocumented Americans” and described them as “undocumented sisters and brothers” during a podcast episode in 2020. This was prior to his calls for the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In a May 12, 2020, episode of his podcast America Dissected, El-Sayed criticized former President Donald Trump for allegedly using immigration as a political tool. He pointed out that Trump’s actions, including the termination of the DACA program and the Muslim ban, showcased how Trump weaponized immigration. “From his decision to end DACA, to his Muslim ban, to the mishandling of the public charge rule, to the concentration camps at the southern border,” he remarked, highlighting the use of ICE in deportations.
“And beneath it all are immigrants, actual people with hopes and dreams and fears and lives,” El-Sayed continued, emphasizing that many come seeking a better life. “My parents, and unless you’re Native American or black, your parents or grandparents or great-great-grandparents came here for the exact same reasons.”
He expressed concern for undocumented individuals, particularly during the pandemic, stating, “Undocumented people are among the most vulnerable in our society.” He pointed out the inconsistency of deeming their labor essential while labeling their existence illegal, noting the toll the pandemic has taken on them.
Later, El-Sayed referred to illegal immigrants as “our undocumented sisters and brothers.” In another discussion with podcaster Evan James, he reiterated his stance for abolishing ICE, suggesting, “It seems to me that the middle position is like, this shouldn’t exist.” He further argued that the agency fundamentally undermines the rule of law and the Constitution.
In prior comments, El-Sayed mentioned visiting Minneapolis to form his own opinions about ICE, declaring that “ICE is not about immigration.” He remarked that since Minneapolis isn’t located on the southern border, the focus of ICE goes beyond immigration issues and raises questions about constitutional enforcement.
