Abdul El-Sayed, a candidate for the U.S. Senate seat in Michigan, has maintained a public association with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) through attendance and participation in at least six events between 2017 and 2020, including headlining a 2019 fundraiser. Despite this history, El-Sayed has publicly distanced himself from the organization and rejected the label of "socialist."
In recent interviews, El-Sayed stated he is "not technically or practically DSA" and that he "believes in capitalism, I just believe that capitalism has to be regulated." He further elaborated in an interview that while he agrees with many policies advocated by DSA-aligned politicians, he does not identify as a socialist. He argued that supporting guaranteed healthcare or regulating corporations does not equate to being a socialist but rather to wanting "government to work for people."
Sources within the DSA have indicated a closer relationship. At the 2019 event, El-Sayed was described by organizers as a "longtime friend of Detroit DSA." He was photographed with Rep. Rashida Tlaib, who identifies as a socialist, behind a display that depicted a hand labeled "DSA" choking a snake labeled "capitalism."
El-Sayed's engagement with the DSA began during his 2017 run for Michigan governor, with subsequent appearances at events focusing on topics such as Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. The Washington Free Beacon was the first to report on El-Sayed's attendance at these DSA events.
El-Sayed is currently competing in the Democratic Senate primary against Rep. Haley Stevens, a moderate. Some analysts suggest El-Sayed's efforts to separate himself from the DSA may be a strategic move to appeal to Michigan's electorate, which is considered closely divided politically.
Self-described socialists have also publicly supported El-Sayed. Sen. Bernie Sanders endorsed El-Sayed on the day he launched his Senate campaign, having previously endorsed his gubernatorial bid. El-Sayed's campaign did not respond to requests for comment regarding his association with the DSA and his political identity.
Recent tax returns indicate El-Sayed and his wife earned $686,069 in 2025, and he possesses a collection of luxury watches. El-Sayed himself has stated that entities like ICE, health insurers, and corporate interests should view him as "dangerous."