Contact: James D'Amour, Sierra Club Michigan Political Committee Chair, 734-678-8411
Ann Arbor -- Today, the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter announced its endorsement of Abdul El-Sayed (D-MI) in the 2026 election for United States Senator of Michigan.
"Dr. El-Sayed represents the passion and hopes of Michigan citizens of all ages, but particularly of younger voters,” said James D'Amour, Sierra Club Michigan Political Committee Chair. “Abdul has not shied away from the climate crisis, and is especially passionate about protecting our Great Lakes, our drinking water, and our rights to clean air. He is ready to take on corporate interests.”
“We are confident that Abdul will not only fight to protect our environment but support a clean energy economy that lowers costs and creates new jobs here at home,” D’Amour continued. “As attacks on bedrock air and water protections and endangered species continue, Abdul is the right man at the right time to stand up for all of us, including our children and their future, and we stand with him!”
El-Sayed has taken a major stand on data centers. He released a "Terms of Engagement" framework calling for protections against cost shifting to residential customers, greater transparency, environmental safeguards, and stronger community involvement. He subsequently appeared with residents at the proposed Saline-area "Barn" hyperscale data center and criticized the relationship between large data-center developers, utilities, and regulators.
More broadly, El-Sayed has advocated moving toward 100% renewable energy and has connected that transition to reducing the political and economic influence of fossil-fuel corporations. During the primary, El-Sayed highlighted his previous work addressing industrial air pollution in Detroit and argued for stronger climate action.
"We are deeply grateful for Abdul,” said Lansing area Sierra Club activist Mary Rouleau. “He is a true environmental champion who will fight to protect our communities and our Great Lakes from polluting industries."
Along with the endorsement, the Sierra Club will lend its considerable volunteer strength to El-Sayed's campaign.
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