Abdul El-Sayed Responds to JD Vance’s Criticism at Michigan Rally
Context of the Exchange
During a campaign rally in Monroe, Michigan, Vice President JD Vance made a series of derogatory remarks about Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed. Vance stated, “voters deserve better than a little weasel who should shut his mouth and show a little gratitude to the country that gave him everything,” in an apparent attempt to undermine El-Sayed’s candidacy as the 2026 midterm elections approach.
El-Sayed’s Response
In response, El-Sayed addressed the crowd at an event in Marquette, Michigan, where he highlighted the nature of political attacks. He remarked, “There are always a few very loud people, who are small and want to make us small like them,” emphasizing that such criticisms often originate from what he describes as “carnival barkers.” He alluded to Vance’s Ohio roots when he asserted that “too many of them are Ohio,” indirectly referencing the source of Vance’s comments.
A Direct Retort
El-Sayed confronted Vance’s label of “little weasel” directly, saying: “You know, it’s funny, JD Vance called me a little weasel today. I’m like, ‘No, no, no, what you’re talking about is a fucking Wolverine.’” This remark resonated with the audience, drawing applause. He further asserted Michigan’s spirit by adding, “You can take your Buckeye and you can shove it somewhere else,” a clear jab aligning with the rivalry between Michigan and Ohio.
The Michigan-Ohio Rivalry
El-Sayed, an alumnus of the University of Michigan, used references to the state’s mascot, the Wolverine, to strengthen his argument. He concluded his remarks by stating, “Here we might be Wildcats, we might be Spartans, we might be Wolverines, but we will never be Buckeyes,” referencing the University of Michigan’s longstanding athletic rivalry with Ohio State University, whose mascot is the Buckeye.
