In a recent podcast appearance, Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed recounted an incident where he destroyed a vodka bottle in a Detroit liquor store after being criticized for the length of his beard, which is a sign of religious observance among Muslim communities. El-Sayed stated that when asked if he was Muslim, he responded affirmatively, and the store employee remarked that his beard was too short. In response, El-Sayed purchased a bottle of vodka and smashed it on the ground, leaving the store afterward.
This incident has become a point of contention in the Senate race, with Republican National Committee spokesperson Hunter Lovell commenting that it reflects El-Sayed's aggressive stance on matters of faith. Lovell characterized El-Sayed as having anger management issues and questioned his suitability for the Senate.
El-Sayed's campaign did not directly address the liquor store incident when asked for a response. A spokesperson stated that El-Sayed is angry on behalf of the people, contrasting him with former President Trump.
El-Sayed is competing in a Democratic primary to replace outgoing Senator Gary Peters, facing fellow progressive Mallory McMorrow and establishment candidate Rep. Haley Stevens. He has positioned himself as the most left-leaning candidate, advocating for policies such as "Medicare for all" and free college education. El-Sayed has also faced criticism for his views on U.S. relations with Israel and for campaigning with political commentator Hasan Piker, who has made controversial statements regarding Hamas.
El-Sayed has condemned all forms of religious violence, including an attack on a synagogue in Michigan earlier this year, which he labeled as terrorism. The Michigan Senate primary is scheduled for August 4.