Abdul El-Sayed’s victory in the Michigan Senate primary marks a historic breakthrough. As a Muslim son of immigrants who defied establishment Democratic politics, his win has challenged centrist gatekeepers’ dismissive attitude toward progressive candidates. The win in a swing state, also a presidential nomination state, signals a potential shift in the party’s direction.
Outspent but Victorious
El-Sayed was outspent by more than nine to one in the most expensive Democratic congressional primary ever. His opponent, Haley Stevens, received over $60m in funding from groups including Chevron and Philip Morris, with nearly half from a Super Pac backed by Aipac. Despite this, El-Sayed prevailed, suggesting voters are waking up to a captured democracy.
Israel and Campaign Focus
Israel played a large role in the campaign, but both candidates discussed it differently. El-Sayed framed it as a question of tax dollars, saying, “The question is quite secondary to whether they have a right to our tax dollars.” This approach contrasted with his detractors’ repetitive talking points about Israel’s right to exist.
Challenges Ahead
Progressive candidates face immense challenges from Republicans and centrist Democrats. Third Way, a centrist group, has raised millions to discredit democratic socialists. Their fear is that progressive momentum could lead to a presidential nominee who would be crushed by Republicans, a concern that has proven unfounded for centrist candidates against Trump.
New Political Model
Politicians like El-Sayed and Zohran Mamdani represent a new US politics, fusing outsider cultural and ideological features with their adopted country. They avoid total assimilation and engage fully in contests. Their movement battles a bankrupt Democratic establishment, right-wing culture wars, and a powerful lobbyist machine.
Progressive voters are made, not found. If Democrats prefer losing on their own terms to winning with the progressive left, they risk ensuring Trumpism’s continued success. Backing progressive candidates all the way to 2028 may be the only viable path forward.
