Former President Donald Trump issued a statement on Sunday targeting Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, arguing that the candidate should be subjected to metal detector screenings if he were to enter the Senate building. Trump’s remarks centered on claims regarding El-Sayed’s political history, specifically alleging a record of support for individuals he characterized as “jihadists.”

Trump drew a comparison between the security protocols required for air travel and the standards he believes should apply to government buildings. He stated that because an individual with such a record would be screened or barred from boarding an airplane, they should similarly be denied a seat in the Senate. The comments represent a continuation of Trump’s rhetoric regarding political opponents and national security concerns. El-Sayed, a physician and former health official, has not publicly responded to these specific remarks as of this report. The statement has drawn attention to the intersection of political discourse and security rhetoric during the current election cycle.