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Muslim 2.0 Culture Makers: Exploring the Controversy of Abdul El-Sayed's Stance on LGBTQ and Abortion Rights in Relation to Quranic Teachings

Writer: Laila Nasheeba
Laila Nasheeba
Aug 8
3 min read

On this week's Real Talk News in Review, Brother Yusuf Zucovsky highlighted Abdul El-Sayed, a Muslim American of Egyptian descent and the Democratic nominee for the 2026 United States Senate election in Michigan. El-Sayed has publicly pledged to uphold the American Constitution, while also supporting abortion rights and LGBTQ and transgender rights. These positions have sparked debate because they appear to conflict with traditional Quranic teachings. This post explores the controversy surrounding Abdul El-Sayed’s political stances in relation to Islamic principles, aiming to provide a clear understanding of the issues involved.


Eye-level view of a political campaign banner for Abdul El-Sayed with American flags in the background

Abdul El-Sayed’s Political Platform and Public Positions


Abdul El-Sayed has gained attention not only for his political ambitions but also for his progressive stances on social issues. His public website and campaign materials clearly state his support for:


  • Abortion rights: Advocating for a woman's right to choose and access to safe reproductive healthcare.

  • LGBTQ rights: Supporting equal rights and protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals.

  • Transgender rights: Promoting policies that affirm gender identity and protect transgender people from discrimination.


These positions align with many progressive American values but have raised questions within some Muslim communities because they contradict Islamic teachings as interpreted from the Quran.


Quranic Teachings on Abortion and LGBTQ Issues


The Quran and Islamic jurisprudence provide guidance on many aspects of life, including moral and social issues. However, interpretations vary widely among scholars and communities. Here is a brief overview of traditional Quranic perspectives on abortion and LGBTQ matters:


Abortion in Islam


  • The Quran does not explicitly mention abortion, but Islamic scholars generally agree that life begins at a certain stage of fetal development, often considered to be 120 days after conception.

  • Many Islamic schools of thought permit abortion only under specific circumstances, such as when the mother's life is at risk.

  • Abortion for reasons of convenience or choice is typically prohibited.


LGBTQ and Transgender Issues in Islam


  • The Quran contains verses that condemn same-sex sexual relations.

  • Islamic teachings emphasize heterosexual marriage and family structures



The Conflict Between El-Sayed’s Positions and Quranic Commands


Abdul El-Sayed’s support for abortion and LGBTQ rights challenges traditional interpretations of the Quran.


Upholding the American Constitution vs. Religious Teachings


El-Sayed’s pledge to uphold the American Constitution means supporting laws that protect individual rights, including reproductive freedom and LGBTQ equality. This commitment reflects the secular nature of American governance, where religious beliefs do not dictate public policy.


For many Muslims in America, this raises questions:


  • How can one support policies that conflict with Quranic commands?

  • Allah commands us to practice Al Wala Wal Bara in all matters of life. How is he showing this?

  • What does it mean to be a Muslim public servant in a pluralistic society?



Examples of Muslim Public Figures Navigating Similar Issues


Other Muslim public figures have also grappled with aligning their faith and political stances:


  • Ilhan Omar, a U.S. Congresswoman, supports LGBTQ rights and reproductive freedom while identifying as a Muslim.

  • Rashida Tlaib, another Muslim Congresswoman, advocates for progressive social policies and has spoken about the complexity of faith and politics.

  • Linda Sarsour, an activist, supports LGBTQ rights and reproductive justice, emphasizing social justice within an Islamic framework.


These examples show that Muslim leaders often engage in nuanced discussions about faith and public policy.


The Role of Faith in Political Leadership


The controversy around Abdul El-Sayed’s stances highlights a broader question about the role of religion in politics:


  • Should Muslims participate in non-Muslim elections and politics at all?





Abdul El-Sayed’s support for abortion and LGBTQ rights challenges traditional Quranic teachings, sparking important discussions about faith, politics, and identity. His campaign illustrates the complex realities faced by Muslim Americans who seek to uphold constitutional rights while honoring their religious heritage. This controversy invites deeper reflection on how to balance personal beliefs while living in a secular society.



 
 
 

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