Left-wing Democrat Abdul El-Sayed wins in Michigan to become first Muslim senator

Left-wing Democrat Abdul El-Sayed has won in the battleground state of Michigan to become the US's first Muslim senator, following a race fuelled by withering attacks and inter-party disputes.

El-Sayed bested Republican Mike Rogers, withstanding an onslaught of attacks that included baselessly tying him to terrorism and a high-profile spat with a fellow Democrat.

Rogers, backed by President Donald Trump, portrayed El-Sayed as a communist, criticising his stance on Israel and his Muslim faith.

After waiting long hours, watching the wave of Democratic gains across the country, El-Sayed's supporters celebrated wildly when he took the stage to mark his victory.

The former public health administrator campaigned on a left-wing platform that included universal health care and a wealth tax on billionaires.

The win comes days after El-Sayed's Democratic primary rival, Haley Stevens, endorsed Rogers, the Republican candidate, just days before the election.

El-Sayed's supporters gave deafening cheers when he took to the stage, as they chanted his name in jubilation. A sea of iPhones were held up to take in this moment of history - a Muslim man elected to the Senate.

Several people in the crowd embraced, filled with emotion. They repeated his slogan back to him like they were at a concert: "Money out of politics, money in your pocket and Medicare for all."

Kaynak: BBC News World RSS (Açık Basın / Haber Servisi)