The leadership PAC, a committee not connected to his campaign and meant to raise money for his political allies, is the latest sign that El-Sayed aims to influence Democratic politics into the future. El-Sayed has used the word Habibi, an Arabic term of endearment meaning “my beloved” but often used more casually, to address his opponents in the wake of Tuesday’s win.

“JD, habibi,” El-Sayed said in his victory speech, addressing Vice President Vance who has harshly criticized the Michigander. “There is this delicious irony in the fact that you’re constitutionally obligated to swear me in in January.”

Arabic terminology and culture were present throughout the El-Sayed campaign as he pushed to become the first Muslim U.S. senator. Supporters often wore “Habibi for Abdul” shirts on the campaign trail.

El-Sayed won by a wide margin Tuesday in a key swing state for the 2028 presidential election, potentially positioning him to influence the likely expansive Democratic primary field of candidates as they make their way through the Midwest state.