Abdul El-Sayed Makes History as First Muslim Elected to the US Senate

Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed has made history in American politics by defeating Republican rival Mike Rogers in Michigan's Senate election, becoming the first Muslim elected to the United States Senate. The Associated Press and several major news outlets have projected his victory. 

According to the vote figures provided, El-Sayed received 2,236,824 votes, while Rogers secured 1,992,133. The Democratic candidate won by a margin of 244,691 votes.

There had been concerns among Democrats over the Michigan seat after outgoing Senator Gary Peters decided not to seek re-election. Republicans had hoped to capture the seat. El-Sayed's victory has kept it in Democratic hands. 

The 42-year-old El-Sayed previously worked as a public health official. During his campaign, he pledged to reduce the cost of living, strengthen financial security for working families and limit the influence of large corporations in politics. His proposal for publicly funded healthcare for all, known as Medicare for All, was also a central part of his campaign. 

His 63-year-old opponent, Mike Rogers, also has extensive political and professional experience. A former member of Congress and former FBI official, Rogers received the backing of President Donald Trump.