Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, who is Jewish, announced she will not attend the Michigan Democratic Party's 2026 state nominating convention on August 29, citing security concerns and a pattern of harassment. Her absence underscores a widening internal conflict within the state party, largely driven by differing views on the United States' support for Israel amidst its ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
Nessel stated during a roundtable discussion last month that she feels unsafe attending the convention, anticipating she would be "yelled and screamed at" and "booed off the stage," as she claims has happened to her and others at previous events. "I don’t feel safe going. I feel like my presence isn’t going to be welcome," Nessel said. The Michigan Democratic Party responded with a statement from spokesperson Derrick Honeyman, asserting a commitment to safe and secure events for all attendees and rejecting antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of hateful conduct.
The convention takes place as a segment of the Democratic Party is increasingly advocating for a reduction in military aid to Israel. This friction was further amplified by the recent Democratic Senate primary, where Abdul El-Sayed, a vocal critic of Israeli military actions, narrowly defeated incumbent U.S. Representative Haley Stevens. Stevens had previously faced disruptions and anti-Israel sentiment at an April convention.
Rabbi Asher Lopatin, who has joined Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers at campaign events, told Fox News Digital that the treatment of pro-Israel speakers at the April convention has left many, including progressive individuals, "traumatized." He characterized the intimidation tactics as extremist and noted that it is emboldening even state officials like Nessel to avoid party functions.
Stacy Gittleman, a Democrat who attended the April convention, observed a notable presence of Palestinian flags and a perceived lack of decorum and respect, which she interpreted as a sign of the party's shift to the left. Some Jewish leaders in Michigan are circulating an open letter urging Jewish Democrats and independents to support Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers, viewing the current political climate as an "existential issue" for Jewish Democrats who feel increasingly alienated.
However, not all Jewish Democrats in Michigan share the same sentiment. Joan Lowenstein, endorsement chair of the Michigan Democratic Jewish Caucus, stated that while some find the convention environment potentially "unpleasant," she hasn't encountered anyone who believes they will be unsafe. Lowenstein acknowledged that while some may feel it's an "existential issue" and feel compelled to support Rogers, others prioritize retaining a Democratic Senate majority and would not vote for a Republican.
Rogers has highlighted concerns from Jewish voters in Michigan, citing instances of fear among students at the University of Michigan. El-Sayed, who, if elected, would be the nation's first Muslim senator, has faced scrutiny for his past comments on Israel, including describing its military actions as "bloodthirsty" and questioning unconditional U.S. military aid. He has also deflected direct questions about Israel's right to exist.
Following his primary victory, El-Sayed stated his solidarity with the Jewish community and condemned antisemitism, asserting a commitment to Jewish safety comparable to his own family's safety and a responsibility to address antisemitism in all its forms.