Personal Profile

Abdul El-Sayed, whose full name is Abdulrahman Mohamed El-Sayed, is an American physician, epidemiologist, public health expert, academic and politician. He gained national recognition through his work in public health and political campaigns in Michigan. In 2026, he became the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in Michigan.

Early Life & Background

• Full Name: Abdulrahman Mohamed El-Sayed

• Known As: Abdul El-Sayed

• Date of Birth: October 31, 1984

• Age: 42 years (as of 2026)

• Birthplace: Rochester Hills, Michigan, United States

• Nationality: American

• Profession: Physician, Epidemiologist, Academic and Politician

Abdul El-Sayed was born and raised in southeastern Michigan. His parents immigrated to the United States from Egypt. He grew up in the Detroit area and developed an interest in education, public service and community issues.

Education

El-Sayed studied biology and political science at the University of Michigan, graduating with highest distinction in 2007. He later received a doctorate in public health from the University of Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar in 2011. He also earned his medical degree from Columbia University in 2014.

Career

Public Health Career

Abdul El-Sayed began his professional career in public health and academia. He worked as an assistant professor of epidemiology at Columbia University and became known for his research into health policy and health inequalities.

In 2015, he was appointed executive director and health officer of the Detroit Health Department. He led the department until 2017, focusing on rebuilding public health services and improving community health.

From 2022 to 2025, he served as director and health officer of the Wayne County Department of Health, Human and Veterans Services.

Political Career

El-Sayed entered electoral politics in 2018 when he ran for governor of Michigan in the Democratic primary. Although he did not win the nomination, the campaign brought him wider political recognition.

In 2026, he ran for the U.S. Senate in Michigan and won the Democratic primary on August 4. He became the party's nominee for the November 2026 general election.

Podcast and Public Work

Alongside his public service and political activities, El-Sayed has worked as a writer, podcast host and public commentator. He hosted America Dissected, a podcast focused on health, politics and public policy.

Personal Life

Abdul El-Sayed is married to Sarah Jukaku, a psychiatrist. The couple have two daughters and live in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He is the son of Egyptian immigrants and has often spoken about his background and connection to Michigan.

Abdul El-Sayed – Info