Over 400 Jewish Democrats in Michigan Support Republican Mike Rogers Against Abdul El-Sayed

<p>More than 400 Democratic Jewish individuals in Michigan are endorsing Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers, expressing feelings of being "threatened and alienated" by leftist candidate Abdul El-Sayed and his supporters.</p><p>Rob Orley, a prominent Democratic donor and senior advisor for O2 Investments, is among the signatories. He has previously contributed significant amounts to Democratic campaigns, according to FEC filings, but is now supporting Rogers over El-Sayed.</p><p>In a letter signed by Orley and others, they stated, "Many of us have been fiercely supportive of Democratic candidates and principles." The letter warns that if El-Sayed wins the general election in this key swing state, it could lead to the dominance of far-left and anti-Jewish elements within the Democratic Party, particularly in the upcoming 2028 presidential race.</p><p>The letter includes signatures from notable members of Michigan's Jewish community, such as Robert Gordon, former president of Temple Israel, which experienced an antisemitic attack in March. Other signatories include Shayna Levine, daughter of the leading rabbi at Temple Israel; David Propis, cantor of Congregation Shaarey Zedek; Laurence Deitch, former University of Michigan regent; and Hannan Lis, a Weight Watchers executive.</p><p>Former Rep. Andy Levin, who is Jewish, argues that the opposition to El-Sayed among Jewish Democrats represents a minority viewpoint and claims that the American Israel Political Action Committee (AIPAC) is influencing the letter. Levin lost his primary bid in 2022 after AIPAC spent over $4 million against him.</p><p>Levin stated, "It's not a surprise to me. The people I know associated with it are all long-time AIPAC insiders and supporters." He added that AIPAC reflects a minority position regarding Israel and Palestine within the Jewish community.</p><p>Levin endorsed El-Sayed in November 2025, expressing that he receives significant support from Jewish individuals who want to see El-Sayed win the election on November 3rd.</p><p>Attorney Daniel Cherrin, a signatory of the letter, mentioned that he has not attended an AIPAC event in over 30 years. He expressed concern for the safety of his community and stated, "I don't feel safe in that environment with the people that are standing in support of him."</p><p>Cherrin emphasized that the Jewish community's safety is paramount and that many Jewish Democrats are uncomfortable voting for the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate, seeking alternative outlets for their frustrations.</p><p>El-Sayed's campaign spokesperson stated that he is grateful for the conversations he has had with Jewish leaders and aims to build a coalition to defeat Rogers and restore Democratic control of the U.S. Senate.</p><p>Rogers, who served in Congress for 15 years, expressed appreciation for the support from the Jewish community, particularly those crossing party lines. He stated, "As antisemitism rises and Jewish families worry for their safety, it’s critical that we have leaders who will confront hatred — not inflame it."</p><p>Progressive Jewish Democrats like Levin and Schindler view Trump and his allies as the primary threat to democracy. Levin remarked on the importance of electing a Muslim to the U.S. Senate, emphasizing the need for representation for the Arab American and Muslim communities in Michigan.</p>