Michigan Senate candidate Mike Rogers launched a sharp attack on Democratic rival Abdul El-Sayed during Wednesday’s debate, challenging him over alleged links to the Muslim Brotherhood.
Rogers, a former Republican congressman and retired FBI agent, cited a 2012 open letter to the organization that El-Sayed reportedly signed. El-Sayed declined to address the document when questioned by The New York Times.
“So, being bought off by the Muslim Brotherhood, having campaign donors from Hamas who support Hezbollah—is that not a problem?” Rogers asked.
He continued by questioning whether El-Sayed would place American interests above those of foreign militant organizations if elected to the Senate. “We need to know: Are you for America, or are you for these terrorist groups overseas?” Rogers said, arguing that the issue represented a national security threat despite El-Sayed’s calm demeanor and polished delivery.
El-Sayed, who previously served as a public health official, later objected angrily to Rogers questioning his loyalty to the country.
“To call into question my commitment to the Constitution is really beneath you,” El-Sayed said.
Wednesday’s event was the second and final debate of the Michigan Senate campaign.
During their first debate earlier in the month, El-Sayed repeatedly declined to identify whether he viewed Iran or Israel as the “greater threat to the United States,” dismissing the premise as a “ridiculous” question.
Rogers, meanwhile, said he would withdraw his support for Israel if the country ever used nuclear weapons.
El-Sayed also accused Rogers of relying on corporate contributions and being controlled by wealthy backers. Rogers countered by attempting to associate his Muslim opponent with Islamic extremism.
The contest to replace retiring Sen. Gary Peters, a Michigan Democrat, has emerged as one of the most combative Senate races of the midterm election cycle. The Nov. 3 result could help decide which party controls the Senate in the following year.
Polling has consistently rated the Michigan Senate race as a toss-up.
The latest RealClearPolitics polling average gives El-Sayed a narrow two-point advantage over Rogers.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
