Michigan Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed is under fire for a resurfaced 2020 documentary clip. In the video, El-Sayed expresses his dislike for Mackinac Island, a cherished Michigan vacation spot.
In the clip, El-Sayed tours Mackinac Island during his unsuccessful gubernatorial campaign. He candidly states, “I hate Mackinac so much,” referring to the popular island in Lake Huron. He jokes about potentially using the governor’s summer residence on the island, saying, “If we win, this is gonna be, like, the summer home.”
Thursday, the clip gained traction on social media, with conservatives criticizing El-Sayed for his comments. Federalist editor-in-chief Mollie Hemingway tweeted that figures in the Democratic Party have disdain for America. Outkick founder Clay Travis shared fond memories of getting engaged on the island, praising its beauty. Former Trump advisor Steve Cortes labeled Mackinac Island iconic and criticized El-Sayed’s views.
Commentary Magazine editor John Podhoretz expressed strong disapproval, saying, “A person who hates Mackinac Island has had his soul ripped from his body.” Meanwhile, others like NRSC spokesperson Sarah Gallagher suggested that El-Sayed prefers his Dubai property over Mackinac Island.
El-Sayed, defending himself, stated the comments were about the Mackinac Policy Conference. Journalist Brad LaPlante mentioned that El-Sayed criticizes the conference for excluding voters while gathering powerful insiders.
Mackinac Island is notable for its ban on motor vehicles since the 1890s, preserving its unique charm. Visitors enjoy its Victorian homes, historic sites, and natural beauty, attracting over a million tourists each summer. Landmarks like the Grand Hotel and Fort Mackinac symbolize Michigan’s heritage.
Fox News Digital sought a response from El-Sayed’s campaign but did not hear back. However, El-Sayed countered criticism on Friday, questioning the notion of Mackinac Island as the “most American place in MI” due to the car ban.
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