Abdul El-Sayed Becomes First Muslim Elected to US Senate
Abdul El-Sayed has become the first Muslim elected to the United States Senate. A physician, epidemiologist and progressive Democrat, he defeated Republican Mike Rogers in one of the most closely watched races of the 2026 midterm elections. The result is being seen as a historic step.
Context
The US Senate has 100 members, two from each state, and it plays a central role in approving laws and federal appointments. Midterms are held halfway through a US president's term and decide which party controls Congress.
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