Jewish Democrats in Michigan Show Support for GOP Candidate

In Michigan, notable Jewish Democrats are shifting their support towards Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers. The state’s GOP chairman, Jim Runestad, expressed confidence that opposition to Abdul El-Sayed would result in many Jewish voters leaving the Democratic Party by Election Day.

“The main concern among Jewish Democratic donors centers on El-Sayed,” Runestad said to Fox News Digital. “His comments and associations have alarmed the Jewish community in Michigan.”

Approximately 500 individuals, identifying as Jewish Democrats or independents, have signed an open letter. This letter endorses Rogers as a “friend to the Jewish community” and warns of “far-left and anti-Jewish elements” within the Democratic Party should El-Sayed win.

Republican candidate Mike Rogers is actively courting Michigan Democrats following El-Sayed’s primary win. However, El-Sayed tried to regain support through a social media video where he celebrated Rosh Hashanah with two Jewish women. Critics, including Democratic state lawmaker Noah Arbit, criticized this move as tokenism.

Jonathan Greenberg, a rabbi, commented, “This isn’t designed to appeal to the Jewish community.” Nonetheless, El-Sayed’s video engaged many on social media, with thousands of interactions on X and TikTok.

Despite potential alienation of Jewish voters, it’s uncertain if this will affect Democrats long-term in Michigan. The open letter backing Rogers clarifies that signatories don’t necessarily support Donald Trump and are focused on this Senate race only.

The Rogers campaign claims effective Jewish outreach. A campaign source told Fox News Digital they consistently receive positive messages from Jewish voters and mentioned successful fundraisers, albeit without specific figures.

Runestad believes Republicans have a long-term opportunity with the Jewish community, emphasizing shared values such as entrepreneurship, low taxes, and reduced regulation.

While Jewish support for Rogers could benefit him, El-Sayed maintains robust backing from Michigan’s Arab American community, particularly in regions like Dearborn.

Runestad stated, “We’re engaging the Jewish community in Oakland County and anticipate substantial changes this cycle.” Runestad also criticized Hasan Piker, linked to El-Sayed, for antisemitic comments. He believes these associations are a growing concern for the Jewish community.

El-Sayed has defended his proximity to Piker as irrelevant to voters and dismissed the claim about 9/11 as “dumb.” He reassured that his campaign engages with Jewish leaders to build coalitions against Rogers, aiming to restore Democratic control of the Senate.

In response to the pro-Rogers letter, over 800 Jewish Michiganders signed in support of El-Sayed, despite some policy disagreements. El-Sayed prioritizes addressing Jewish community concerns, seeking endorsements from prominent Jewish lawmakers and maintaining frequent community engagement.