Dem Senate hopeful’s ‘physician’ campaign pitch under fire after license records reveal key gaps

Michigan Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed has drawn criticism for falsely presenting himself as a licensed physician, despite records confirming he has never held a medical license in Michigan or New York. While El-Sayed holds a medical degree, public records reviewed by Politico show he lacks the necessary credentials to legally use the title "physician" in either state. New York law prohibits unlicensed individuals from identifying as physicians, a claim El-Sayed made during public appearances, and Michigan law bars misleading claims about medical licensure. El-Sayed’s medical experience is limited to a four-week clinical rotation after medical school, which he described in a 2022 podcast as 'cosplaying as a doctor.' His campaign has heavily relied on his medical background, including references to himself as a 'physician and epidemiologist' in debates and fundraising materials. Even his LinkedIn bio still lists him as a 'physician and epidemiologist,' despite his lack of licensure. Democratic strategist Chris Dewitt noted the discrepancy undermines a key part of El-Sayed’s campaign, which has framed him as a medical expert. Critics, including primary rival State Sen. Mallory McMorrow, have accused him of overstating his credentials. El-Sayed’s spokesperson, Roxie Richner, defended his record, emphasizing his public health work, such as eliminating up to $700 million in medical debt and expanding access to Narcan in Michigan. El-Sayed’s medical degree and PhD in public health from the University of Oxford remain valid, but his campaign’s repeated use of the physician title has raised questions about transparency. Michigan Democratic consultant Adrian Hemond suggested the campaign could better highlight his public health achievements instead of relying on an unearned medical title. The controversy comes as El-Sayed seeks the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate in Michigan.