
NY Rabbi Takes Campaign Against Michigan Candidate To National TV
NEW YORK (VINnews) — A New York rabbi who has emerged as an increasingly vocal force in American politics appeared on Newsmax to warn about Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, raising questions about his past writings, political associations and positions on issues concerning Israel and national security.
Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch, a psychotherapist, author and host of the Rabbi for America podcast, used the interview to call for greater scrutiny of El-Sayed’s political record, including past writings concerning Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood and his association with controversial political figures.
“He’s one of the most dangerous politicians in America today,” Schonbuch told Newsmax, arguing that El-Sayed’s record deserves closer examination.
Schonbuch pointed to a 2011 opinion article and a 2012 letter written by El-Sayed that he characterized as supportive of the Muslim Brotherhood. He also raised questions about the political activities of members of El-Sayed’s family.
El-Sayed has denied ties to the Muslim Brotherhood and has dismissed questions about his background as an attempt to cast suspicion on him because of his Muslim faith.
During a recent debate, El-Sayed compared the scrutiny he faces to questions about religion directed at John F. Kennedy during his 1960 presidential campaign. Schonbuch rejected the comparison, arguing that examining a candidate’s political positions and associations is different from questioning someone’s loyalty because of their religion.
The interview also addressed El-Sayed’s association with political streamer Hasan Piker, who has faced criticism over controversial remarks about the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Schonbuch argued that the association has heightened concerns among some Jewish voters already troubled by antisemitism and rhetoric about Israel within parts of the progressive movement.
Schonbuch said the controversy could prompt some Jewish Democrats to reconsider their traditional party loyalties. He pointed to grassroots efforts identifying themselves as “Jews for Rogers,” referring to Republican Senate candidate Mike Rogers, a former congressman and FBI agent.
Asked how Republicans could attract more Jewish voters, Schonbuch emphasized public safety, constitutional protections and a clear commitment to confronting antisemitism.
“They have to say, ‘We’re the party of safety and security. We’re going to defend your rights in America. Uphold the Constitution,’” he said.
Schonbuch also announced plans to travel to Michigan to campaign for Rogers, whom he praised as an experienced public servant.
The Newsmax appearance reflects Schonbuch’s expanding role in political commentary, where he has increasingly focused on antisemitism, Israel and the direction of American politics. Through his Rabbi for America podcast and media appearances, he has urged voters to examine candidates’ records and associations when assessing issues of national security and the protection of Jewish communities.