Rogers Says Michigan Voters Worry About El-Sayed

MICHIGAN — Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers said on October 18, 2026, that he is gaining support from traditionally Democratic-leaning coalitions because of concerns about his opponent, Democrat Abdul El-Sayed. The remarks were made on CNN's "State of the Union."

Rogers said El-Sayed has not disavowed the Muslim Brotherhood, which Rogers described as an extremist group. He also alleged that El-Sayed's campaign is funded by groups sympathetic to the organisation. Rogers said affordability is a key issue for voters. He criticised Democrats for opposing a 70-cent gas tax holiday in Lansing.

El-Sayed could become the first Muslim elected to the U.S. Senate. Republicans, including President Donald Trump, have made accusations about his Muslim faith, according to the reports. At a recent town hall in Caro, Michigan, El-Sayed said he disavows the Muslim Brotherhood. He was responding to questions about his family's alleged ties to the group. According to Newsweek, El-Sayed said, "For me, that Constitution is the guiding light," referring to his commitment to the U.S. Constitution.

Polls show a narrow lead for El-Sayed, and the race is tight, according to the reports. A CNN report said El-Sayed's campaign is working to keep support from key voter groups, including the Black community, as Election Day approaches. The reports did not give poll figures or the size of any shift in support.

Background

El-Sayed is the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate seat in Michigan. Rogers is the Republican nominee. The Muslim Brotherhood is a group that the reports describe as extremist. El-Sayed has said he rejects the group. The reports do not say whether the allegations about his family have been confirmed.