El-sayed's Victory Offers Democrats a Template to Counter Trump

Abdul El-Sayed’s victory in Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary offers a template for Democrats nationwide to counter Donald Trump, argues Peter Beinart. El-Sayed, who won last night’s primary in Michigan, has crafted a progressive nationalism that links US military aid to Israel with unmet domestic needs, such as underfunded schools. His approach contrasts with Trump’s fusion of nationalism and imperialism, instead pairing nationalism with progressivism.

El-Sayed’s campaign also shows how Democrats can neutralize Republicans’ financial advantage, despite his closer-than-expected margin. The race, set against the backdrop of Israel’s war in Gaza and Trump’s conflict in Iran, resonates with younger Republicans, as polls indicate growing skepticism toward unconditional support for Israel. The campaign’s message emphasizes what’s happening there rather than what’s happening here.