El-Sayed to Swear on Quran as First Muslim Senator
Michigan’s first Muslim senator plans to swear on the Quran, citing historical Muslim leaders and American values.
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Abdul El-Sayed, the first Muslim elected to the U.S. Senate, has revealed his intention to become the first senator sworn in on the Quran. The Michigan Democrat discussed his plans in an interview with NPR’s Leila Fadel, published on the podcast Newsmakers, where he mentioned that he has not yet decided which copy of the Quran to use.
Historical Connection to the Quran
El-Sayed, 42, pointed to a copy of the Quran once owned by Thomas Jefferson, who bought it as a 22-year-old law student. Jefferson later sold the book as part of his personal library to the Library of Congress, where it remains. He also mentioned the University of Michigan’s Quran, which is described as very old and might be the choice for his swearing-in.
Abdul El-Sayed says he will take the oath of office on a Quran: “I will likely swear on a Quran.” https://t.co/PzElEQzsUb
During the same interview, El-Sayed defended his name and described himself as “100% American.” He compared his name to that of Mike Rogers, Donald Trump, and JD, emphasizing that it is an American name.
Abdul El-Sayed: “Abdulrahman Mohamed El-Sayed is an American name. I am 100% American.” https://t.co/a6pL5S63NN
El-Sayed also expressed his preference for Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) to replace Chuck Schumer as Senate Democrat leader, stating that leadership should reflect the American public’s mandate rather than past practices.
Additionally, El-Sayed reiterated his calls to end the Iran war, pass Medicare for All, and abolish Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He highlighted the significance of the Constitution, stating that it is the reason he could run for office and be elected, regardless of how he prays.
Political Stance and Future Plans
El-Sayed emphasized the importance of leadership that aligns with the American public’s expectations, warning against repeating past strategies without earning the mandate. He also referenced Keith Ellison, the first Muslim elected to Congress in 2006, who swore on the same Quran that Jefferson owned.
Source: Daily Wire
