Abdul El-Sayed stands by criticism of fireworks, tells Americans to find other ways to ‘show you love’
Democratic US Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed has defended his previous criticism of Fourth of July fireworks, telling listeners on "The Breakfast Club" radio show that Americans have "other ways" to express their patriotism. The Michigan candidate's remarks come amid renewed scrutiny of his past online comments, after a CNN report found he had deleted or hidden roughly 100 YouTube videos before launching his Senate campaign, including one urging Americans to abandon fireworks over health and safety concerns.
Speaking to host Charlamagne tha God, El-Sayed argued that fireworks displays worsen air quality and can trigger asthma attacks and heart problems the following day, while insisting he was not calling for fireworks to be banned outright. The deleted video reportedly listed several reasons "why fireworks suck" and warned of risks to children and pets. Republican rival Mike Rogers has seized on the resurfaced comments, accusing El-Sayed of hiding views that would alienate voters who enjoy the traditional Independence Day pastime. Neither campaign responded to requests for comment from Fox News Digital.
In short
- El-Sayed defends past criticism of Fourth of July fireworks on air quality grounds
- CNN found he deleted about 100 YouTube videos before his Senate bid
- Republican rival Mike Rogers says the deletions show hidden radical views
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
El-Sayed’s concerns about fireworks reflect a public-health case: smoke can aggravate respiratory and heart conditions, while explosions can pose risks to children and distress pets. Encouraging other forms of celebration, without seeking a ban, could respect personal choice while reducing harm to neighbours and vulnerable people.
The case against
Fireworks are a longstanding Independence Day tradition that many people value as a shared expression of patriotism and community. Critics may argue that health and safety risks can be addressed through precautions and limited use, and that urging people to give up fireworks risks dismissing a meaningful custom; the timing and deletion of the videos also give voters reason to question how openly El-Sayed has presented his views.
Explained simply
The Fourth of July marks the United States’ independence and is often celebrated with fireworks. These displays are a familiar public tradition, though they can also create smoke and noise and pose safety risks.
Abdul El-Sayed is a Democrat running for the US Senate in Michigan, where he is seeking election to represent the state in Congress’s upper chamber. Mike Rogers, his Republican rival, is also campaigning for the seat. Their competing campaigns form the political context for debate over El-Sayed’s past comments.