Trump Claims Rogers Dominated Senate Debate

President Donald Trump stated that Mike Rogers, the former U.S. Representative and Michigan Republican Senate candidate, “obliterated” his opponent, Abdul El-Sayed, during a debate on Thursday night.

In a post on Truth Social early Friday, Trump expressed, “Mike Rogers, the great American Patriot and Republican Candidate for the U.S. Senate from Michigan, completely obliterated Mohammad El-Sayed in the big debate tonight. If this was a fight they would have stopped it.” He didn’t hold back in his criticism, labeling El-Sayed a “Jihadist lunatic” who supposedly harbors disdain for America and the Black community in Detroit. Trump emphasized that El-Sayed lacks stature, patriotism, and truth, claiming his remarks are filled with “lies and deceit.” He also reminded voters of his own victory in Michigan, asserting that Rogers is the right choice for them.

Debate Highlights Tensions

During the debate, things escalated into personal attacks as Rogers and El-Sayed clashed over various issues, including Israel and Iran. The debate showcased the stark contrasts between the candidates’ positions.

Neither El-Sayed’s campaign nor the White House immediately provided comments regarding Trump’s statements.

Trump has previously endorsed Rogers, who served in the House from 2001 until 2015. Although Trump supported him in 2024, Rogers lost the Michigan Senate contest that year to Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin.

El-Sayed Responds to Trump’s Attacks

In response to Trump’s comments, El-Sayed emphasized, “He knows my name is Abdul. He says it every day. But he’s not just attacking me. He’s attacking all of us.” He highlighted Trump’s use of his name and faith as a distraction from the challenges facing everyday Americans, especially regarding rising costs at the grocery store and gas stations.