‘I hate Democrats, but I love Abdul’: voters who left over Gaza return for progressive push
Summary
Many voters in Michigan who left the Democratic Party in 2024 over its support for Israel have returned to back progressive candidates like Abdul El-Sayed in the 2026 primary. These voters hope progressive policies on healthcare, immigration, and foreign policy will bring new energy to the party after low approval ratings under President Donald Trump’s return to office.Key Facts
- In 2024, about 100,000 Michigan voters chose to vote uncommitted or supported third parties due to disagreement with the Democrats’ Israel policy.
- Abdul El-Sayed and other progressives won Democratic nominations in Michigan in 2026, motivating some past non-Democratic voters to return.
- Michigan’s 2026 primary turnout rose to 2.5 million, up from 2 million in 2024, indicating renewed interest.
- Many voters want the Democratic Party to shift its stance on Israel and military aid, aligning more with young voters.
- Polls show that most Democrats oppose military aid to Israel and support Medicare for All and ending ICE.
- Some former Democrats, disappointed by the party’s positions, have shifted support to President Donald Trump.
- Voters like Amin Hashmi voted for Trump in 2024 as a protest but supported El-Sayed in the 2026 primary.
- The article highlights the growing influence of progressive candidates in the Democratic Party amid low approval ratings for the party overall.
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