Trump Faces Backlash for Repeatedly Misnaming Michigan Senate Candidate Abdul El-Sayed

• by Shimanta Das
• October 13, 2026

President Donald Trump sparked controversy during a campaign rally in Tennessee on Saturday by repeatedly referring to Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed as “Mohammed.” Despite acknowledging that he knew El-Sayed’s actual first name, Trump insisted, “I’m the president. I can call him whatever the hell I want.” The remarks drew immediate criticism, with many accusing the president of disrespecting El-Sayed, who is the son of Egyptian immigrants and whose full name is Abdulrahman Mohamed El-Sayed. The misnaming was seen by some as a deliberate attempt to otherize the candidate, who is Muslim, and to distract from substantive issues in a key Senate race.nnThe incident comes at a critical time in the Michigan Senate race, which is considered essential for control of the U.S. Senate. El-Sayed, a former public health official, recently won a contentious Democratic primary against Rep. Haley Stevens and is now set to face Republican candidate Mike Rogers in the general election. The first debate between El-Sayed and Rogers is scheduled, and polls show a tight race that has captured national attention. Trump’s comments followed that debate, and El-Sayed responded with a message of his own. “It’s time for change,” El-Sayed said, adding that he won’t be distracted by personal attacks. He has consistently emphasized his policy platform and his commitment to representing all Michiganders.nnThe backlash against Trump’s remarks has been swift, with critics pointing out that such behavior is unbecoming of a president and undermines the dignity of the office. Many have noted that El-Sayed’s full name includes “Mohamed,” but that does not excuse the president’s refusal to use the candidate’s correct name. The Michigan Senate seat is crucial for Democratic hopes of regaining the Senate, where the party aims to retain the two Michigan seats while flipping four others from Republicans. As the race tightens, Trump’s comments may energize his base but could also alienate moderate voters who value respect and civility in politics.nnEl-Sayed, who delivered a victory speech after his primary win, had anticipated possible attacks from Trump and other Republicans. He used that speech to send a message to his opponents, saying he would not be deter