I’m so honoured, El-Sayed celebrates historic US Senate victory

Abdul El-Sayed. Photo: Anadolu Agency

Democrat Abdul El-Sayed has expressed excitement over his projected victory in Michigan’s midterm election, saying he was “so proud and honoured” to emerge as senator-elect.

El-Sayed, who defeated former Republican Representative Mike Rogers, made history as the first Muslim elected to the United States Senate on Tuesday.

Speaking to supporters on Tuesday night in a video shared by Fox News, the 42-year-old Egyptian-American reflected on his repeated use of the Islamic expression “Inshallah”, meaning “God willing”, during his campaign.

He said, “My name is Abdulrahman Mohamed Sayed, and I am so proud and honoured to stand here as your senator-elect from the great state of Michigan.

“Up until right about now, you might have noticed I always say Inshallah or God willing whenever the outcome of this race was mentioned.

“But today, tonight, we can turn that Inshallah into Alhamdulillah.”

• Democrat Abdul El-Sayed becomes first Muslim elected US senator
• Trump rejects blame for Republican losses, says candidates failed to inspire voters
• Mystery money floods US midterm election campaigns

Alhamdulillah is an Arabic expression meaning “praise be to God”.

According to Anadolu Agency, El-Sayed’s victory, projected by US media on Tuesday, secured the seat being vacated by retiring Democratic Senator Gary Peters.

The 42-year-old former public health official will assume office when the new Congress convenes in January.

His emergence followed a competitive Democratic primary in August, where he defeated Representative Haley Stevens to secure his party’s ticket for the general election.

His election marks a milestone for Muslim representation in American politics.

Olugbenga Ige is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over nine years of professional reporting experience. He is known for his sharp eye for compelling stories and a strong instinct for identifying newsworthy developments. Over the years, Olugbenga has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience, editorial judgment, and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.