Abdul El-Sayed courts college kids – and controversy – in Michigan Senate race

Democratic US Senate candidate rallies Michigan college students, drawing criticism for appearance with internet streamer Hasan Piker

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:18am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A vibrant, abstract painting of a podium, microphone, and crowd of people in overlapping, fractured geometric shapes, conveying the energy and controversy of a political rally.El-Sayed's controversial college rallies highlight the generational divide within the Democratic party as it battles for its future.Ann Arbor Today

Democratic US Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed appealed to young voters at Michigan State University and the University of Michigan, where he was joined by Hasan Piker, a progressive political commentator and internet personality with a large following who has faced accusations of antisemitism. El-Sayed's decision to campaign with Piker drew heavy criticism from his political opponents and Jewish advocacy groups.

Why it matters

With three candidates currently locked in a statistical dead heat, Michigan's Democratic US Senate primary is viewed by state and national observers alike as a fight for the future of the party. Strong support among college students — a reliably Democratic faction — could be a key factor in determining the winner.

The details

In an appeal to college students, El-Sayed vowed to continue pushing for affordable health care, less corporate influence in politics, and an end to the Iran war. He criticized Israel's military actions in Gaza and Iran, saying he opposes the Israeli government, not Jewish people. El-Sayed's opponents, including US Rep. Haley Stevens and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, have expressed concerns about his willingness to give a platform to Piker's controversial views.

  • On Tuesday, El-Sayed spoke to a crowd of hundreds at Michigan State University.
  • El-Sayed and Piker were also expected to rally with students at the University of Michigan later on Tuesday.

The players

Abdul El-Sayed

A Democratic US Senate candidate in Michigan who is appealing to young voters and has faced criticism for appearing with Hasan Piker.

Hasan Piker

A progressive political commentator and internet personality with a large following who has faced accusations of antisemitism.

Haley Stevens

A US Representative and Democratic US Senate candidate in Michigan who has expressed concerns about El-Sayed's decision to campaign with Piker.

Mallory McMorrow

A state Senator and Democratic US Senate candidate in Michigan who has also expressed concerns about El-Sayed's decision to campaign with Piker.

Mike Rogers

A Republican candidate for US Senate in Michigan who has criticized El-Sayed's decision to campaign with Piker.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm not talking down to young people — I'm talking specifically to the challenges they face, because I believe that they've got the greatest stake in our future, and we need to build a politics that is responsive to them.”

— Abdul El-Sayed, Democratic US Senate candidate

“He's a real fighter. He's honest, he doesn't treat people like they're stupid. He understands that voters have demands, and he will respond to those demands.”

— Hasan Piker, Progressive political commentator and internet personality

“The decision to appear with Piker is yet another example of the growing normalization of extreme anti-Zionism in mainstream spaces.”

— Elyssa Schmeir, Regional director of ADL Michigan

“Fuck 'em.”

— Hasan Piker, Progressive political commentator and internet personality

“When you stand up and say, 'That's some bullshit,' they come at you.”

— Abdul El-Sayed, Democratic US Senate candidate

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.