Michigan Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed has announced the creation of a political action committee (PAC) called “Habibi PAC,” shortly after making history as the first Muslim person elected to the United States Senate. The PAC aims to support and oppose candidates in future elections and is registered as a leadership PAC under the Federal Election Commission.
According to documentation filed with the FEC, the newly established Habibi PAC is distinct from El-Sayed’s own campaign efforts. Leadership PACs are often utilized by lawmakers to increase their influence among peers by contributing to fellow members, party initiatives, and other political committees. The term “Habibi,” which translates to “my dear” or “my beloved” in Arabic, frequently appeared in El-Sayed’s campaign speeches, notably during his victory speech in Detroit where he referred to Vice President JD Vance.
El-Sayed is among several newly elected Democrats who have also registered leadership PACs since the recent elections. Other newcomers include Arizona Congressman-elect Amish Shah, Iowa Senator-elect Josh Turek, and North Carolina Senator-elect Roy Cooper, each with their respective PACs.
The use of leadership PACs has grown in prominence, especially in the wake of the 2024 election cycle, during which such committees reportedly contributed $79.3 million to federal candidates. Although Republican candidates received the bulk of this funding, a Democratic leadership PAC emerged as the largest single donor.
El-Sayed’s victory over Republican Mike Rogers unfolded amid a contentious political climate, with high-profile figures like former President Donald Trump and Senators JD Vance and Ted Cruz challenging his loyalty and making unsubstantiated accusations linking him to extremist groups. In addressing the public, El-Sayed previously stated that taxpayer funds should prioritize domestic needs rather than foreign interventions.
The senator emphasized the importance of addressing systemic issues to prevent the rise of figures like Trump. He campaigned on a platform focused on reducing the influence of money in politics, declaring that his electoral win demonstrated that “the many can win” in the struggle against financial power.
El-Sayed’s election occurs during what is projected to be the most expensive midterm election in history, with total spending expected to reach $11.9 billion, a significant increase from the previous cycle. Outside spending, particularly from super PACs, is anticipated to hit $3.9 billion, and dark money contributions from undisclosed sources have already surpassed $1.47 billion.
As El-Sayed prepares for his Senate role, expectations remain high for the impact of Habibi PAC in shaping future political dynamics in the United States.
