Michigan Senate candidate criticizes AIPAC donations as 'legalized bribery'

Abdul El-Sayed, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Michigan, described donations from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) as a form of "bribery." In a post on X, he stated, "Next week, AIPAC is set to spend at least $3,847,990 against me. Why? Because [Haley Stevens] is more committed to the future of a foreign country than keeping your tax dollars here to provide schools and healthcare for you and your kids." El-Sayed's comments come as he prepares for a primary against Rep. Haley Stevens, who is known for her pro-Israel stance. The issue of foreign influence in American elections has been a significant topic in the Michigan Senate primary. Stevens, endorsed by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, criticized El-Sayed for questioning the U.S.-Israel alliance during a recent debate. El-Sayed has argued that the Israel lobby holds excessive power in U.S. elections, limiting candidates' ability to question U.S. foreign policy. He has also faced scrutiny regarding his tax returns, explaining that his family's foreign assets have complicated the process. According to his candidate report disclosures, El-Sayed reported a salary from Wayne County of $278,900 and a net worth estimated between $580,000 and $1.7 million, which includes his wife's real estate holdings in India.