El-Sayed Addresses ‘Unpaid Debts’ to Black Communities in Senate Campaign

Abdul El-Sayed, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate from Michigan, emphasized the importance of addressing “unpaid debts” to Black communities. He spoke at a meeting with women faith leaders in Detroit, hosted by the Woman Difference Collaborative. His comments were recorded by C-SPAN.

El-Sayed is in a closely watched Senate race against Republican nominee and former Representative Mike Rogers. He highlighted the need for leaders who acknowledge and address these debts.

In a video posted online, El-Sayed stated, “When it comes to Black communities in Michigan—and in America—there are unpaid debts long overdue that we are unwilling to acknowledge, let alone pay down. We require leaders who understand and address these debts.”

El-Sayed discussed energizing Democratic voters, particularly those who did not support him in the primary. He stated his strategy involves continuous engagement, showing up, and emphasizing his track record, saying, “But the question for me is, within my power have I done my best?” He challenged others to review his history.

His previous work includes addressing infant and maternal mortality, asthma, and lead exposure. He advocates expanding access to capital for small businesses and investing in housing and schools. El-Sayed was formerly the health director for Wayne County and ran for Michigan governor in 2018 before starting his Senate campaign.

The Detroit event also featured discussions about El-Sayed’s public health achievements, U.S. aid to Israel, and his endorsement of Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential election. Campaign attack ads from Rogers and criminal justice topics were also part of the dialogue.

Fox News Digital attempted to reach El-Sayed’s campaign for comment, but no immediate response was received. Sophia Compton, a Fox News Digital writer, reported this story. She graduated from the University of Hawaii at Manoa with a journalism degree in 2021, previously covering business finance, energy, and tourism as a reporter.