California Governor Gavin Newsom has endorsed Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic nominee for the United States Senate in Michigan, a move that has drawn criticism due to El-Sayed's past statements regarding Israel.
El-Sayed has on multiple occasions declined to affirm Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state, characterizing such questions as a "gotcha game." He has also stated that any definition of a Jewish state inherently involves "illiberal values." El-Sayed has described Israel's actions in Gaza as "genocide" and "apartheid" and called for an end to American military assistance to Israel, including defensive systems like the Iron Dome.
Newsom, who traveled to Israel after the October 7th attacks, has publicly stated his support for Israel and has spoken about the importance of protecting Jewish communities. He met with survivors and victims' families during his visit.
Despite El-Sayed's positions, which contrast with some of Newsom's own stated views and branding as a more moderate Democrat, Newsom endorsed him immediately after El-Sayed secured the nomination. El-Sayed also supports policies such as abolishing ICE, Medicare for All, and a billionaire wealth tax, positions that Newsom typically avoids.
The endorsement has been met with strong disapproval from some quarters, with critics arguing that El-Sayed's stance on Israel should disqualify him from receiving support from a politician who claims to value Israel's security and the existence of a Jewish state. The author of one report expressed deep personal distress over the endorsement, stating that it suggests a willingness to overlook fundamental positions for political advancement.