Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed is facing intense criticism from within his own party after controversial remarks made during a donor meeting were leaked.

The audio, obtained by POLITICO, includes El-Sayed using the phrase 'ogre on a pike' to describe his strategy for defeating rival John Fetterman.The comment has sparked outrage among Democrats, with Rep.Hillary Scholten condemning the rhetoric as violent and vulgar.Activists like Fred Guttenberg and Shannon Watts have also weighed in, accusing El-Sayed of undermining Democratic unity.Meanwhile, Republicans have seized on the comments, some targeting El-Sayed's Muslim faith.

The backlash highlights deepening tensions within the party between progressive and moderate factions, with accusations of sexism and racism surfacing.

El-Sayed's campaign claims he was speaking metaphorically about primary challenges, but critics argue the remarks reflect personal attacks rather than policy debate.The controversy adds to a contentious primary race that could shape the Democratic Party's direction ahead of 2028 elections.