Trump says Abdul El-Sayed cannot serve in Congress over Muslim Brotherhood ties
Washington: US President Donald Trump has accused Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed of belonging to the Muslim Brotherhood, without presenting evidence, while endorsing Republican rival Mike Rogers in Michigan’s closely watched Senate race.
Speaking to reporters in Arizona on Tuesday, Trump claimed El-Sayed had acknowledged membership of the Islamist organisation years ago. He questioned whether someone he accused of having such affiliations should serve in Congress, particularly on committees dealing with national security.
Trump praised Rogers, a former congressman challenging El-Sayed, and said he would visit Michigan in the coming days as part of his campaign efforts to help Republicans retain control of Congress. He also announced plans for campaign stops in Ohio and Texas ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.
El-Sayed has repeatedly rejected the allegations. In a television interview on October 11, he denied that he or his family had any links to the organisation. He has also argued that attacks targeting his religious identity and family background are intended to divert attention from economic issues.
The dispute has become a prominent feature of the Michigan contest, which could influence the balance of power in the Senate. The candidates have traded criticism over national security, foreign policy and their political records.
El-Sayed, a former Detroit public health official, is seeking to become the first Muslim elected to the US Senate, bringing questions of religious representation and political identity into the high-profile race.
With IANS inputs