COLUMNIST: It's okay to judge El-Sayed by the company he keeps | Arkansas Democrat Gazette

A columnist says Michigan U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed faces two key questions stemming from his high-profile association with Hasan Piker, an accused antisemitic internet influencer. The piece highlights claims by the Anti-Defamation League that Piker is among the most outspoken antisemitic influencers, recalling comments including “America deserved 9/11” and using a framed photo of the collapsing Twin Towers as a podcast prop. It also cites remarks comparing Israel to Nazi Germany and denying Israel’s right to exist, along with statements about the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks and Israel. El-Sayed has defended Piker as anti-Zionist rather than antisemitic, while critics argue the relationship normalizes extremism. The columnist adds Piker was denied entry to the UK in June.