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Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed defends past criticism of fireworks

The Democratic candidate addressed his comments after his Republican opponent criticized him for deleting YouTube videos containing the remarks.

The short version

  • Democratic Michigan U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed defended his past criticism of Fourth of July fireworks during an appearance on 'The Breakfast Club' radio show.
  • El-Sayed clarified that he is not calling for an outright ban on fireworks, but rather highlighting their negative impacts on air quality and health, such as asthma and heart attacks.
  • The controversy follows a report that El-Sayed deleted or hid approximately 100 YouTube videos, including the fireworks criticism, before starting his campaign.

Key facts

  • During an appearance on 'The Breakfast Club' radio show, Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed defended his previous criticism of Fourth of July fireworks.[Fox News]
  • El-Sayed cited air quality degradation, asthma exacerbations, and heart attacks as reasons for suggesting alternative ways to celebrate.[Fox News]
  • A CNN report previously revealed that El-Sayed deleted or hid about 100 YouTube videos, including one detailing 'why fireworks suck,' prior to launching his Senate campaign.[Fox News]
  • Republican nominee Mike Rogers criticized El-Sayed on 'Hannity,' arguing that El-Sayed's deleted posts show his views are out of touch with Michigan residents.[Fox News]

Sources