Michigan Senate hopeful Abdul El-Sayed engaged in a heated exchange with Sky News correspondent James Matthews on Tuesday, dismissing the reporter's questions by stating he does not care about votes in the United Kingdom.
When Matthews identified himself as a British journalist and began to ask questions, El-Sayed challenged whether the reporter was a registered voter in Michigan. Upon Matthews's acknowledgment that he was not, El-Sayed responded, "Then why would I care to have a conversation with you?"
Matthews explained that the outcome of the Michigan Senate race was significant globally. However, El-Sayed reiterated his stance, telling the reporter, "You know how many votes I want to get into the U.K.? Zero. I do not care what you think or the questions you ask."
During the confrontation, El-Sayed placed his hands on the reporter's shoulders and asked him to "stop chasing me around" before walking away. The exchange occurred on Election Day as results for the midterm elections were being reported. The New York Post reported on the incident, linking to live updates on the 2026 Midterm Elections.