Faith Is No Barrier to Public Service: NCAM Congratulates Dr Abdul El-Sayed on His Historic Election to the US Senate

Media Release – 5 November 2026

The National Council of Australian Muslims (NCAM) congratulates Dr Abdul El-Sayed on his election as United States Senator for Michigan. The Associated Press has called the race following the 3 November election. When he takes his seat, Dr El-Sayed, the son of Egyptian immigrants and a former Wayne County health director, will become the first Muslim to serve in the US Senate.

“This is a proud moment for Muslims everywhere, and a reminder that faith is no barrier to public service,” NCAM Director Sajida Salman said. “Dr El-Sayed was elected by voters of every background who judged him on his record and his ideas.”

Dr El-Sayed’s victory came after a campaign in which he faced repeated anti-Muslim attacks, including from senior political figures. On 27 October, NCAM condemned those attacks and called on leaders everywhere to reject the targeting of candidates because of their faith.

NCAM does not take sides in the politics of another country, and does not endorse any party here or abroad. Our point is a simple one: Muslims belong in public life, and they should be able to stand for office without having their faith used against them.

That principle matters in Australia too. With candidate nominations for the Victorian state election closing on 9 November, NCAM renews its call for every party and candidate to campaign on ideas, without demonising any community.

Around the world, Muslims serve their communities as doctors, teachers, councillors and parliamentarians. Each time one of them is judged on merit rather than faith, public life becomes fairer for everyone.

“We hope Dr El-Sayed’s success inspires young Australian Muslims to consider public service,” Ms Salman said. “Our parliaments and councils are stronger when they reflect the people they serve.”

For media inquiries, please contact: media@ncam.au

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National Council of Australian Muslims (NCAM) acknowledges all First Peoples as the Traditional Custodians throughout the land across Australia, and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We recognise and respect the historical and traditional connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have to the land, water, culture and community. We appreciate the importance of the world’s oldest living culture, and support the union of a reconciled Australia. NCAM is committed to ensuring inclusion, equity and equality.