Michigan Democrats Nominate Regent Who Shared Posts Praising Hezbollah Leaders
Michigan Democrats this week nominated a regent candidate who previously shared social media posts praising Hezbollah leaders. The nomination followed the party's decision to replace a Jewish incumbent on the University of Michigan's Board of Regents. Social media screenshots circulated online showed the candidate praising Hezbollah leaders as "martyrs," prompting criticism and concern from community members and political rivals. Hezbollah is designated a terrorist organization by the United States and several allies, which intensified backlash.
The episode has renewed debate about candidate vetting and the balance between diversity and electability within state Democratic politics. Public reaction on social platforms ranged from calls for the nominee to step aside to defenses citing free speech, reflecting sharply divided local opinion. The nomination could influence turnout and messaging in Michigan as national and local groups assess risks ahead of upcoming elections.
📌 Key Facts
- Amir Makled defeated incumbent Regent Jordan Acker for the Michigan Democratic Party nomination to the University of Michigan Board of Regents at the state convention.
- Makled had shared and later deleted posts on X that described Hezbollah leaders Hassan Nasrallah and Abu Ali Khalil as 'martyrs' and amplified a Candace Owens post calling Israelis 'demons.'
- Former Michigan Democratic Party chair Brandon Dillon wrote an op-ed opposing Makled, calling his online conduct a 'pattern of extremism and bigotry.'
- Makled represented students in anti-Israel protests, has called for University of Michigan divestment from Israel, and linked his candidacy to those protests in his acceptance speech.
- Regent Jordan Acker’s car was spray-painted with 'Divest... Free Palestine' and a Hamas-referenced symbol in 2024, one of multiple anti-Israel vandalism incidents he reported that year.
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