Left-wing political outsider Abdul El-Sayed is projected to win the Democratic Senate primary in Michigan, which exposed bitter divisions over the party’s direction.
The former public health official is on course to beat moderate four-term Democratic congresswoman Haley Stevens, according to CBS News, the BBC’s US partner.
El-Sayed voiced support for left-wing causes like universal healthcare and abolishing US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. He also called for ending unconditional US military aid to Israel.
If officially confirmed as the primary’s winner, he will face Republican and Trump ally Mike Rogers, in November’s midterm elections.
The son of Egyptian immigrants would be the first Muslim US senator if he wins in November.
“We won,” El-Sayed posted on X on Wednesday morning, writing that he was “proud to be your Democratic nominee for US Senate”.
“Money out of politics. Money in your pocket. Medicare for All,” he added, a refrain he had recited to voters on the campaign trail.
“I want to congratulate Abdul El-Sayed on winning the Democratic nomination for US Senate,” Stevens said in a statement. “He is a doctor, a community health official, a Rhodes Scholar, and a dedicated Michigander. I am proud to offer my support as he takes on Mike Rogers in the general election.”
The November midterm elections will determine the balance of power in Washington for the last two years of President Donald Trump’s time in office.
