**Michigan Candidate Faces Fire for Rallying With Streamer Who Said "America Deserved 9/11"**

A Democratic U.S. Senate primary in Michigan has erupted in controversy. Candidate Abdul El-Sayed is under attack for holding campus rallies with Hasan Piker, a popular but controversial online political streamer. The criticism comes from both his Democratic rivals and his likely Republican opponent. The backlash focuses on past statements by Piker. In a resurfaced 2022 clip, the streamer said, "America deserved 9/11." He has described the comment as a criticism of U.S. foreign policy. El-Sayed, a progressive former state health director, has not distanced himself from Piker. The two have appeared together at recent university events. Rivals accuse El-Sayed of associating with extreme rhetoric. This could hurt Democratic chances to win the critical Senate seat. The controversy highlights the risks for politicians partnering with online influencers. These influencers have large audiences but can also bring past controversies to a campaign.