The progressive coalition known as the Squad has thrown its support behind Abdul El-Sayed in the Michigan Democratic Senate primary. The endorsement, announced this week, gives El-Sayed a powerful boost as he competes for the open seat being vacated by retiring Senator Debbie Stabenow.
Who is the Squad
The Squad is a group of progressive U.S. House members including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, and others. They have become a influential force in Democratic primaries, often backing candidates who align with their platform on issues like Medicare for All, a Green New Deal, and criminal justice reform. Their endorsement can bring national attention, fundraising support, and grassroots energy to a campaign.
El-Sayed's campaign
Abdul El-Sayed is a physician and former director of the Detroit Health Department. He ran for governor of Michigan in 2018 but lost the Democratic primary to Gretchen Whitmer. Now he is seeking the Senate seat being vacated by Debbie Stabenow, who announced her retirement earlier this year. El-Sayed has positioned himself as a progressive alternative to other candidates in the primary, which includes Representative Elissa Slotkin and others. The Squad's endorsement signals that the progressive wing of the party is rallying behind El-Sayed.
What the endorsement means
The Squad's backing could help El-Sayed attract national progressive donors and volunteers. It also highlights the ideological divide within the Michigan Democratic primary, where Slotkin is seen as a more moderate candidate. The endorsement may energize the party's left flank, but Whether much it will sway primary voters in a state that has a mix of urban, suburban, and rural constituencies.
The Michigan Senate primary is scheduled for August 6, 2024. El-Sayed will face off against other Democrats including Slotkin and actor Hill Harper. The winner will advance to the general election, where the seat is considered a key battleground for control of the Senate.
