Trump’s Remarks Against Muslim Senate Candidate Abdul El-Sayed Spark Backlash in the US
WASHINGTON, October 26, 2026 — Remarks by US President Donald Trump targeting Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed have sparked criticism after Trump portrayed the Muslim Democrat as a national security threat during a campaign rally in Port Huron on October 25.
According to the Associated Press and Reuters, Trump used the term “jihadist,” invoked the September 11 attacks and questioned El-Sayed’s loyalty to the United States. El-Sayed, a former Detroit health official, has denied allegations linking him to extremist groups.
If elected, El-Sayed would become the first Muslim to serve in the US Senate. His campaign against Republican candidate Mike Rogers is part of a closely contested race that could influence control of the Senate in the November 3 midterm elections.
Bishara Bahbah, a founder of Arab Americans for Trump, condemned the president’s remarks, describing them as racist and unacceptable. Former President Barack Obama also criticised efforts to portray El-Sayed as less American than his political opponents.
Republican figures have raised allegations about El-Sayed’s supposed links to the Muslim Brotherhood. The Associated Press reported that there is no evidence establishing that El-Sayed is affiliated with the organisation. El-Sayed has denied such affiliation.
The controversy has renewed debate over Islamophobia, religious identity and political representation in the United States as the midterm elections approach.
What is confirmed: Trump made the remarks at the October 25 rally, and El-Sayed has denied the allegations against him.
Editorial note: Allegations about extremist affiliations should not be presented as established facts without supporting evidence.
Source: Associated Press and islam global news
