Squad Endorsement Highlights Michigan Senate Primary Divide

The entire ‘Squad,’ an informal group of left-leaning congressional members, has given its endorsement to Abdul El-Sayed ahead of the Democratic Senate primary in Michigan. This information is confirmed on his campaign website.

The Squad includes Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from New York, Ilhan Omar from Minnesota, Ayanna Pressley from Massachusetts, Rashida Tlaib from Michigan, Summer Lee from Pennsylvania, Delia Ramirez from Illinois, and Greg Casar from Texas. Many within the group, both current and former, have had ties to the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), a connection El-Sayed is trying to distance himself from in preparation for a general election in this battleground state.

“The support connects El-Sayed to the party’s prominent progressive faction, despite his rejection of the socialist title. His aim is to appeal as a moderate candidate,”

The endorsement emphasizes the ideological aspects of the primary. For the Republicans, this presents a potential angle of criticism should El-Sayed overcome his more centrist opponent, Rep. Haley Stevens, to reach the general election.

Greg Casar’s recent endorsement of El-Sayed exemplifies the Squad’s unified front. Casar stated, “Abdul El-Sayed demonstrates what a bold, pro-working class campaign should look like. House progressives require strong Senate partners to bring economic benefits to people and push for Medicare for All. I endorse El-Sayed with pride.”

El-Sayed’s past involvement with the Democratic Socialists of America is notable. He attended six events organized by them between 2017 and 2020. In one instance, he participated alongside Rashida Tlaib at a fundraiser for Detroit’s DSA, which raised approximately $10,000.

Despite these past associations and endorsements, El-Sayed continues to distance himself from the socialist label. He has publicly stated, “I’m not technically or practically DSA,” expressing a belief in a regulated form of capitalism rather than socialism.

El-Sayed’s primary competition comes from Rep. Haley Stevens, recognized as the more moderate choice. Current polls often show El-Sayed with a notable lead over Stevens.