Abdul El-Sayed elected to U.S. Senate in Michigan

Democrat Abdul El-Sayed has been elected to the U.S. Senate, defeating Republican Mike Rogers in a contest to replace retiring Democratic Senator Gary Peters. The Associated Press called the race at 2:27 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026.

With approximately 72.4% of precincts reporting, unofficial results indicated El-Sayed received 52% of the vote, totaling 2,206,235 ballots, while Rogers secured 46% with 1,952,991 votes. The victory makes El-Sayed the first Muslim American to serve in the U.S. Senate.

El-Sayed, a 42-year-old physician and former public health official for Detroit and Wayne County, campaigned on a progressive platform that included universal healthcare and campaign finance reform. His opponent, Rogers, is a former seven-term U.S. congressman, former FBI agent, and former chairman of the House Intelligence Committee.

The campaign was marked by significant outside spending and personal attacks. During the cycle, El-Sayed faced accusations from Republican figures, including President Donald Trump and Senator Ted Cruz, who questioned his loyalties and alleged ties to the Muslim Brotherhood. El-Sayed denied these claims throughout the race.

In the lead-up to the general election, El-Sayed narrowly defeated U.S. Representative Haley Stevens in the Democratic primary. Following that contest, Stevens issued an endorsement for Rogers just days before the general election.

Following his victory, El-Sayed addressed his supporters, stating that his campaign built a movement focused on government for the people. He will join the Senate as part of the new Democratic majority.