America Next Paid $250,000 for Effort Against Michigan Senate Candidate
The Guardian reported America Next paid $250,000 to Timmy Teepell's firm. The money was for canvassing and influencer marketing against Democrat Abdul El-Sayed.
The group has tried to build “organic” opposition to his Senate run. The Guardian reported an October 1 offer at Flint's town hall.
A University of Michigan College Republicans member made the offer. He said he was acting for America Next.
He offered students $200 to boo and question El-Sayed. Thomas Teepell heckled El-Sayed at that town hall about Muslim Brotherhood loyalty.
The Guardian found no evidence Breakthrough or America Next paid him. Records showed he was a former aide to Josh Hawley.
The Guardian reported he was the son of a Republican adviser. El-Sayed turned the exchange into a viral clip for his campaign.
Republicans had raised claims about his Muslim Brotherhood ties for weeks. The Guardian found no evidence he was involved with the Muslim Brotherhood.
CBS News chief Bari Weiss reportedly urged reporters to investigate El-Sayed's ties. That effort drew backlash from critics.
Key Terms 4
- Canvassing Visiting homes or streets to talk with voters.
- Influencer marketing Paid promotion by social media personalities.
- Muslim Brotherhood A political and religious group founded in Egypt.
- Josh Hawley A Republican US senator from Missouri.