Democrat Abdul El-Sayed has made history by becoming the first Muslim elected to the US Senate after defeating former Republican lawmaker Mike Rogers in Michigan's Senate race, US television networks projected early Wednesday.

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The 42-year-old secured the key Senate seat, which is being vacated by retiring Democrat Gary Peters, with a nearly six-percentage-point lead over Rogers when networks called the race.

Celebrating his victory at his election headquarters in Detroit, El-Sayed told hundreds of cheering supporters: “Michigan, we did it! I am so proud and honored to stand here as your senator-elect from the great state of Michigan.”

El-Sayed's campaign focused on healthcare reform, economic concerns and reducing the influence of money in politics. He promised to work towards universal healthcare and make medical treatment more affordable for ordinary Americans.

“You deserve to be able to see a doctor without getting a huge bill,” he had told Michigan voters on the eve of the election, criticising the country's expensive, profit-driven healthcare system.

His victory came despite a last-minute setback when Congresswoman Haley Stevens, who had lost the Democratic primary to El-Sayed, publicly backed Republican rival Rogers. However, El-Sayed managed to hold on to his support and win the race.

During the campaign, Republicans sought to portray him as a threat to national security, with attacks branding him a terrorist and a communist. He also faced Islamophobic remarks and mockery over his Arabic name from President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

El-Sayed, a medical professional, drew large crowds across Michigan, including in traditionally conservative areas. His campaign also received support from labour unions, activists and left-leaning influencers, helping him connect with a wider section of voters.

His victory was welcomed by supporters who saw his election as an important moment for Muslim representation in American politics. At the victory gathering, entrepreneur Trunetta Roach said she was particularly encouraged by the participation of young voters.

“I'm feeling elated. The kids are all right. I was concerned about them. They didn't seem very engaged, but I was wrong. They showed up,” she said.

In his victory speech, El-Sayed also addressed Vice President JD Vance, saying: “You're constitutionally obligated to swear me in in January.”

With AFP inputs