In West Bloomfield, Michigan, a suburban community near Detroit, the 2024 U.S. Senate race has emerged as a flashpoint for voters whose identities and political loyalties are shaped by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The contest between Republican Mike Rogers and Democrat Abdul El-Sayed, who would become the nation’s first Muslim senator if elected on November 3, has drawn sharp lines among Jewish and Arab American voters who have long navigated complex ties to the Middle East.

The race has unfolded against a backdrop of heightened anxiety. A synagogue in West Bloomfield was attacked earlier this year, and a memorial in nearby Dearborn honors children killed in Gaza. These sites, separated by roughly 30 minutes of driving, underscore the emotional weight carried by communities directly affected by the war that followed Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.

Rogers, a former congressman, has centered his campaign on portraying El-Sayed as a security risk to Jewish voters. He has repeated claims that El-Sayed cannot condemn terrorism in the United States due to alleged associations with the Muslim Brotherhood, a group designated as terrorist by the U.S. government in 2024. At a recent event, Rogers laughed when a speaker referenced El-Sayed wearing an Osama bin Laden jersey, and he amplified a social media post labeling El-Sayed a terrorist. These tactics have drawn condemnation from Jewish advocacy groups and raised concerns about the instrumentalization of religious identity in political messaging.

El-Sayed, a former public health official and son of Egyptian immigrants, has consistently rejected violence and expressed sorrow for all victims of conflict. After a controversial statement about “hurt people hurting people,” he issued an apology for any perceived insensitivity. He has also distanced himself from the Muslim Brotherhood, calling claims of his affiliation “hearsay” and emphasizing his American upbringing. His half-sister’s past social media posts referencing the group have been cited by opponents but do not establish organizational ties.

The Republican strategy has included targeted outreach to Jewish communities in Oakland County, a historically Republican area that has trended Democratic in recent years. Rogers has visited synagogues, including Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, which was damaged in a March attack involving a truck loaded with explosives. The suspect, a naturalized citizen from Lebanon, had family in Israel who died in an airstrike. Rogers has paired this outreach with events featuring Senator Ted Cruz, framing the race as a question of safety in the aftermath of October 7.

Among Jewish voters, reactions are divided. Lori Goldman, a Democratic activist, described Rogers’ messaging as a “fear campaign” that is spreading “insidiously and widely.” Mimi Price-Miletic, also Jewish and affiliated with the Michigan Democratic Jewish Caucus, has declined to support El-Sayed, citing concerns about his associations with figures she describes as antisemitic, including streamer Hasan Piker. “She adores him,” Price-Miletic said of Goldman. “And I feel the exact opposite.”

Other Jewish leaders have voiced skepticism of both candidates. State Senator Jeremy Moss, who is Jewish, has not endorsed El-Sayed, while Representative Haley Stevens, a strong supporter of Israel, backed him in the primary but has not campaigned with him since. Former Congressman Andy Levin, also Jewish, has hosted forums with El-Sayed aimed at addressing voter concerns through dialogue rather than persuasion.

In Dearborn, home to one of the largest Arab American populations in the country, the political landscape has shifted again. While Arab American voters helped deliver Michigan to Trump in 2024, many have grown critical of his rhetoric toward El-Sayed and other Muslim politicians. Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud, a Democrat, has condemned the use of religious identity as a political weapon, noting that senators have brought “poster boards onto the Senate floor” to associate Muslim leaders with terrorism.

Bishara Bahbah, a former Trump campaign outreach leader in the Arab American community, said the president’s recent comments crossed a “red line,” despite his earlier gratitude toward the community. “President Trump several times thanked the Arab American population for their support,” Bahbah said. “I think the people around him should remember that.”

The race remains unresolved, with both campaigns navigating a electorate deeply affected by regional conflict, religious identity, and distrust of political opponents. The outcome may hinge not only on policy positions but on how effectively each candidate can bridge divides in communities where grief, memory, and political loyalty are closely entwined.

Senator Bill Nelson announced his support for David Jolly's proposal to pause new data center construction in Florida. Jolly, the Democratic gubernatorial candidate, has pledged to implement a one-year moratorium on such facilities if elected governor. Nelson stated that the long-term effects of large-scale data centers remain uncertain and that a temporary halt would allow regulatory frameworks and scientific understanding to align with rapid technological development. He emphasized that these facilities require independent power generation and water supply, and that suitable land availability is currently limited. Nelson suggested alternative water sources, such as treated wastewater or stormwater runoff, could be utilized, citing closed-loop systems used on the International Space Station as a potential model. He also noted that his colleague, Congressman Matt Gaetz, has received significant financial backing from data center companies, with recent reports indicating over $6 million in industry contributions. Gaetz previously advocated for building data centers on Florida's 'pristine' land and opposed any ban on construction, but has recently shifted his stance to support local government authority in deciding whether to permit such facilities. Nelson argued that a fragmented regulatory approach would distribute the environmental and infrastructure impacts of data centers across multiple communities, potentially increasing electricity costs for areas that choose to block development while neighboring areas host the facilities.

Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday to accelerate judicial review of immigration-related detentions, arguing that current procedures allow individuals to be held for extended periods without timely oversight.

Khalil's request challenges a 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals decision in Philadelphia that held federal courts lack authority to assess detention legality until immigration courts complete all procedural steps. He seeks to overturn that precedent, which stems from his own detention last year.

A permanent U.S. resident, Khalil was detained in 2024 following participation in pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University. The government cited concerns about his activities' impact on foreign policy, though a federal judge in New Jersey later ordered his release, ruling the detention likely violated constitutional protections. He has remained free while legal challenges proceed.

The Department of Homeland Security defended the detention in a Monday statement, stating that non-citizens who advocate for violence or support designated terrorist groups may have their visas revoked. It referenced former President Trump's administration policies but did not name specific statutes.

Legal experts note that conflicting rulings across federal appeals courts could increase the likelihood of Supreme Court review. The Court has already been asked to weigh in on a related case involving Georgetown scholar Badar Khan Suri, whose detention was upheld by the 4th Circuit. Such jurisdictional splits often prompt high court intervention.

Khalil remains free on bond as his petition navigates the judicial process. The case tests the boundaries of executive authority in immigration enforcement and the availability of judicial review for non-citizens facing prolonged detention.

The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement powers and constitutional due process rights, with potential implications for how courts evaluate executive actions affecting non-citizens.

More than three dozen members of the U.S. Congress have received envelopes containing white powder in recent weeks, just days before the November 3 midterm elections, as federal investigators work to determine the source of the campaign. The most recent incident involved Virginia Democrat Suhas Subramanyam, whose district office in Leesburg was evacuated on Monday after an envelope with a suspicious substance was delivered. Subramanyam stated that the office was cleared promptly and emphasized that political intimidation has no place in the country. Law enforcement officials have not identified a suspect or motive, and no injuries have been reported. The powder has been sent to laboratories for analysis, and the incidents are being treated as potential acts of harassment rather than threats of violence.

Ken Paxton, the Republican attorney general of Texas and candidate for the state’s open Senate seat, enters the race with a record marked by legal challenges and personal controversies. Recent polling shows him trailing Democratic contender Collin Allred by double digits, though he retains strong support among MAGA-aligned voters. Trump’s endorsement, made during a rally where he remarked that Paxton “may not dress right, he may not talk exactly perfectly, and he may not be the best-looking guy I’ve ever seen,” underscores the former president’s willingness to back him despite these issues.

Paxton’s political resilience stems from his ability to navigate multiple scandals. In 2023, he faced state securities charges that he resolved without admitting wrongdoing. Earlier, he was impeached by the Texas House on allegations of abuse of office, though the Senate later acquitted him. Additional controversies include an extramarital affair with a lobbyist, allegations of misuse of donor funds for personal travel, and accusations of improper influence in a securities case involving a donor. He has also been linked to a scheme involving a donor’s yacht and private jet, which he denies.

Despite these issues, Paxton has maintained his candidacy, framing his legal troubles as politically motivated attacks. His campaign has emphasized alignment with Trump’s agenda, including border security and opposition to abortion rights. Critics argue that his record reflects a pattern of evading accountability, while supporters view him as a victim of partisan persecution. The race remains a focal point for national attention as Texas prepares for one of its most competitive Senate contests in recent history.

The outcome could influence control of the Senate, particularly as Democrats target Texas in efforts to expand their majority. Paxton’s ability to mobilize conservative voters despite his controversies highlights the complex interplay of legal, ethical, and political dynamics shaping modern electoral politics.

Florida Democrats intensified their defense of the Hope Florida television advertisement on Monday as early voting commenced, directly confronting a Republican lawsuit seeking to halt the spot. Party Chair Nikki Fried announced the ad would remain on air, framing the legal challenge as an opportunity to discuss the issue for the next two weeks. The lawsuit, filed Friday in Highlands County by the Republican Party of Florida, targets the Florida Democratic Party, three statewide Democratic nominees, and television station owners. It alleges the ad improperly invokes grand jury authority while omitting a recent appellate court ruling that invalidated the core claim underpinning the lawsuit. The 1st District Court of Appeal had ordered the grand jury report expunged on October 7, determining the panel exceeded its authority and that $10 million linked to a Medicaid settlement was never public funds. The grand jury had returned no indictments. Republicans argue the advertisement misleads viewers by suggesting a grand jury validated the claim, while the court explicitly rejected that conclusion. The legal dispute centers on grand jury secrecy laws, with RPOF attorneys also referring the matter to law enforcement, though the appellate court left unresolved whether publishing the report was lawful. The lawsuit emerges amid heightened electoral stakes, with Republicans warning the ad could cause irreversible damage to their campaign narrative, while an injunction would suppress a Democratic messaging strategy during active voter mobilization. The conflict underscores the intersection of legal procedure, campaign strategy, and voter timing as Florida approaches its November elections. — Evening Reads — —“Tehran seeks to punish Donald Trump in Midterms with oil price pain, Iranian officials say” via Susannah George of The Washington Post —“This cybersecurity agency is supposed to protect U.S. elections. Officials fear it’s been compromised by Trump.” via Andy Mannix and Doug Bock Clark of ProPublica —“How Trump’s immigration crackdown gave Florida Democrats a chance” via Daniel Castro of The New Yorker —“These are not serious people” via Chris Cillizza of So What —“Feds suspect ransom negotiator ran ShinyHunters extortion site” via Brian Krebs of Krebs on Security —“Feds say Florida car dealerships charged hidden fees, deceptive advertising” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics —“Pinellas to vote on Vince Nowicki’s Flock camera ban after Bob Gualtieri’s fierce defense” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics —“Miami-Dade skyline is sinking unevenly, new research finds” via Denise Hruby of the Miami Herald —“Why buying a house feels so painful now — and your parents may not understand” via Julie Z. Weil of The Washington Post —“Disney asked Character.AI to go bankrupt for a get-out-of-lawsuits card” via Maddy Varner of WIRED —“Nathan Fielder tells us everything” via Katie Drummond of WIRED — 3 Questions — With Election Day approaching, Amendment 3, a property-tax relief measure on Florida’s November ballot, has drawn significant attention. Florida Realtors® President Chuck Bonfiglio discussed the proposal’s implications for homeowners and communities in an interview. The amendment would raise the homestead exemption for non-school property taxes to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, potentially saving millions of dollars annually for eligible residents. It also reduces the annual assessment cap on non-homestead property from 10% to 5%, aiming to increase predictability for property owners and small businesses. Bonfiglio emphasized that the measure directly addresses affordability challenges faced by Florida families, noting that home values and property tax bills have risen while wages have stagnated. He cited stagnant paychecks failing to keep pace with increasing costs, particularly for retirees on fixed incomes, young families managing insurance and childcare, and long-term homeowners questioning the state’s accessibility. Florida Realtors® framed the amendment as a voter-controlled solution to tax relief, distinct from broader budgetary debates. The organization referenced historical precedent, noting that similar property-tax relief approved in 2008 delivered benefits without destabilizing local services. Bonfiglio stated that Amendment 3 would not divert funding from essential services like public safety or infrastructure, as local governments would retain discretion over budget allocations while being required to prioritize core needs. The measure requires 60% voter approval to pass, making each vote consequential. Opponents have raised concerns about potential impacts on local revenue, which Bonfiglio countered by citing past implementations of property-tax relief that coexisted with continued government functionality. He urged voters to evaluate the amendment based on its direct benefit to household budgets rather than speculative scenarios. The organization also indicated plans to collaborate with state leaders on implementation if the measure passes, while acknowledging it would not resolve all property tax challenges. — Quote of the Day — “Raúl Castro ordered the murder of four Floridians in cold blood, and Florida will never stop pursuing accountability for that communist conspiracy.” — Attorney General James Uthmeier, announcing a state arrest warrant for the former Cuban President. — Put it on the Tab — Look to your left, then look to your right. If you see one of these people at your happy-hour haunt, flag down the bartender and put one on your tab. Recipes included, just in case the Cocktail Codex fell into the well. Order Byron Donalds a Bull Shot after 12 former Cattlemen’s Association presidents endorsed him; though the organization is staying neutral, he’ll have to settle for the herd without the brand. Pour María Elvira Salazar a Fernet con Coca after adding Argentina’s Javier Milei to her international endorsement collection, even if the votes still have to come from local sources. Send Darren Soto a 50/50 Martini after his second tied internal poll, since moving from 41–41 to 44–44 apparently counts as progress when everybody’s running in place. — Breakthrough Insights — — Tune In — Rays closing in on World Series The Tampa Bay Rays are one win away from the third World Series in franchise history as they host the Cleveland Guardians in Game 6 of the American League Championship Series tonight (8 p.m. ET, TBS/truTV). The Rays won the pivotal fifth game last night, 3-1, thanks to timely hitting from Jonathan Aranda, Jonny DeLuca and Liam Hicks, and strong starting pitching from Drew Rasmussen, who tossed seven innings, allowing just one run on four hits. Since the league championship series was expanded to a best-of-seven format in 1985, only seven teams have come back from three games to two down to advance to the World Series. In both of the Rays’ previous World Series trips, in 2008 and 2020, Tampa Bay accomplished the feat. Last year, the Toronto Blue Jays fell behind three to two and won consecutive games to advance to the World Series. The Rays are scheduled to send Freddy Peralta to the mound to start Game 6. Peralta has pitched in three postseason games, including twice against the Guardians. In Game 2, Peralta started and held Cleveland scoreless through six innings, earning the win in a 3-1 Tampa Bay victory. On Saturday, he pitched two-thirds of an inning in the Rays’ 7-3 Game 4 victory. The World Series is scheduled to begin Friday in Milwaukee, where the National League champion Brewers will host Games 1 and 2. ___ Last Call is published by Peter Schorsch, assembled and edited by Phil Ammann and Drew Wilson, with contributions from the staff of Florida Politics.

Meta temporarily suspended the Instagram account of the activist group No Kings during voter mobilization efforts ahead of the U.S. midterm elections, according to company statements and public posts. A company spokesperson, Andy Stone, attributed the removal to automated system detection of unusual activity, later acknowledging the enforcement was incorrect and restoring access after an additional review. Similar concerns emerged internationally when Brazilian newspaper Folha de S.Paulo reported internal Meta communications describing limitations placed on President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s Instagram account during Brazil’s electoral period. The report indicated Instagram had promoted right-wing Senator Flavio Bolsonaro’s content while restricting Lula’s posts, including features that blocked sharing or audio playback. Meta denied political bias, stating the actions resulted from technical issues rather than ideological intent. Lula’s team announced plans to file a complaint with the Organization of American States regarding alleged election interference. Separately, TikTok suspended promotional accounts for the documentary Musk, which examines Elon Musk’s political influence, before restoring them following appeals. The platform had rejected paid advertisements for the film on political content grounds, while X declined to run any ads for the documentary. These incidents occurred amid broader scrutiny of social media moderation practices during election cycles, with companies navigating technical enforcement systems and political accountability concerns across multiple jurisdictions.