Lansing, Mich. — Abdul El-Sayed, Michigan’s Democratic Senate nominee, addressed college students about the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Many students were not yet born when the attacks occurred. He started the event with a moment of silence to honor the victims and then criticized his Republican opponent, Mike Rogers.
Rogers recently increased criticism of El-Sayed due to his past association with left-wing streamer Hasan Piker. Piker made a controversial statement in 2019, claiming, “America deserved 9/11.” Although El-Sayed campaigned with Piker earlier, he has since distanced himself from such remarks.
El-Sayed accused Rogers of voting against benefits for 9/11 survivors and first responders. Rogers represented Michigan in the House from 2001 to 2015. He initially supported financial aid for 9/11 victims but voted against the James Zadroga Act in 2010. This act aimed to provide medical treatment and financial support to first responders and survivors.
El-Sayed criticized Rogers for voting against healthcare for brave first responders, who risked their lives during the tragic event, not once but twice.
Rogers defended his record with a post on X, saying his support for victims is unwavering. He advocated for a $150 million annual appropriation to aid 9/11 survivors and victims’ families.
Piker’s comments about 9/11 have been a focal point for criticism, especially from Michigan Republicans. They aim to tie Piker to El-Sayed in a Senate race that may determine control of the Senate. Last August, El-Sayed called Piker’s comments “dumb.” Piker later stated his remarks were inappropriate and admitted he should have chosen his words more carefully.
El-Sayed’s comments on America’s post-9/11 military actions have also faced scrutiny. In 2021, he mentioned that while 9/11 deeply affected the country, the resulting military actions harmed millions. Republicans argue this shows El-Sayed’s extreme stance, referenced numerous times in the Republican convention in Dallas.
“The Democrats are the party of hatred,” Vice President JD Vance stated. “They sympathize with the perpetrators of 9/11.”
In Dallas, Rogers described the contest as crucial for the country’s “soul,” accusing El-Sayed of excusing extremist threats to Americans.
El-Sayed has repeatedly condemned the 9/11 attacks, stating nothing can justify civilian murders.
El-Sayed supporters and Muslim advocacy groups call attempts to link him to the attacks Islamophobic. Democratic voter Tyler Mitchell, an Afghanistan War veteran, believes Republicans target El-Sayed because of his Muslim faith.
GOP groups supporting Rogers have aired three ads referencing Piker’s comments about 9/11. The Senate Leadership Fund dedicated over $45 million for Michigan ads this fall.
Rogers shared videos of veterans and first responders criticizing El-Sayed and Piker. Maj. Jon Turnbull, an Afghanistan War veteran, stated support for Piker reflects misplaced loyalties.
El-Sayed often faces questions about Piker’s comments while campaigning. He criticized coverage during a town hall, urging focus on topics like healthcare instead.
El-Sayed accused Rogers of using 9/11 memory for political gains while ignoring real issues like the economy, healthcare, or conflict with Iran.
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