Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, who has frequently criticized economic inequality and the wealthy on the campaign trail, reported a household income in 2025 that places him and his wife within the top 1% of earners in the state. Their combined income of $686,069 exceeds the threshold of approximately $611,500 required to reach the top 1% in Michigan, according to IRS data.
El-Sayed's tax returns also revealed $262,299 in capital gains for 2025. He has previously voiced concerns about accumulated wealth, stating at a campaign event, "For people who have accumulated so much wealth that your money makes money, at some point, we’re like, ‘well we can’t possibly tax them.’" He has also criticized "greedy landlords," while reporting ownership of two rental properties valued at $750,000 in 2025.
While El-Sayed has reserved his sharpest criticisms for billionaires, his own financial standing has drawn attention. He has stated, "I don’t begrudge anyone their millions. But I do begrudge everyone their billions." His campaign has promoted policies aligned with figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Ro Khanna, aiming to reduce the wealth and power of the ultra-rich.
El-Sayed's wife's psychiatry practice contributed to the household income. A previous report indicated that the practice reportedly did not accept insurance. El-Sayed's disclosed gross income during his 2018 gubernatorial run was $237,000, a figure significantly lower than his current reported household earnings.
El-Sayed has also faced scrutiny for his association with streamer Hasan Piker, who has made controversial remarks. Furthermore, an unearthed clip showed El-Sayed questioning the necessity of police using guns. He has also denied wanting to defund the police.
The El-Sayed campaign did not respond to requests for comment regarding the released tax information.
