Jewish Democrats View Mike Rogers as Alternative to Abdul El-Sayed

Some Jewish Democrats in Michigan have expressed intentions to support Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers if Abdul El-Sayed becomes the Democratic nominee. This comes as a result of concerns over El-Sayed’s stance on Israel.

Ahead of the primary election on August 4, Jewish donors spoke to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency (JTA) about their worries regarding El-Sayed. Known for criticizing Israel, El-Sayed has become a point of contention within the party. Prominent fundraisers are already considering Rogers as a safer alternative, planning to raise funds to support him.

Jewish Federations of North America national chair of government relations Dennis Bernard mentioned the apprehension among Democrats. “There are leaders in our Jewish community who are longtime, lifelong Democrats and Democratic fundraisers, who are very concerned with where their party’s going,” Bernard stated.

Neil Gorosh, a retired commercial mortgage banker, described feeling “rudderless” within his party. He expressed his intent to vote for Rogers if faced with a choice between him and El-Sayed. “I wouldn’t write a check, but I would vote for him, and I would tell my like-minded friends to do the same,” Gorosh said.

Others emphasized the importance of supporting El-Sayed’s opponent, Rep. Haley Stevens. Stevens is recognized for her support of Israel’s right to exist, making her a preferable candidate for those concerned about U.S.-Israel relations.

Shimon Levy, an Israeli-American entrepreneur from Detroit, strongly opposes El-Sayed, citing a risk to Jewish safety. Levy’s stance reflects broader concerns within the Jewish community about El-Sayed’s past statements on Israel.

Accusations of antisemitism have followed El-Sayed’s campaign, aggravated by his past comments and associations. He has been reluctant to affirm Israel’s right to exist and has equated Israel to Hamas in terms of evil.

Fox News Digital attempted to get a response from El-Sayed’s campaign but did not immediately receive one.