Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Chair of the House Democratic Policy and Communications Committee (DPCC), has faced scrutiny for her associations with individuals linked to extremist and antisemitic views. 

Notably, she has maintained ties with Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, who has a documented history of antisemitic rhetoric and connections to the Iranian regime.

In a sermon delivered on September 20, 2024, at the Islamic House of Wisdom, Imam Elahi cited Quranic verses describing the treachery of Jews and referred to Zionists as "the enemies of peace" who "love fighting" and "love blood." He further criticized U.S. support for Israel, stating that America is run by AIPAC and funds Israel's actions with taxpayer money, while President Biden appears to be "sleeping."

Imam Elahi's connections extend beyond his sermons. He has met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and has been photographed alongside U.S. Vice President and presidential candidate Kamala Harris. 

In July 2023, several Republican lawmakers raised concerns about his ties to the Iranian regime, highlighting his past role as an Islamic teacher in the Iranian Navy during the 1980s and his meetings with Iranian presidents and Hezbollah-linked figures. 

Furthermore, Rep. Dingell has praised Osama Siblani, publisher of the Michigan-based Arab American News, who has a history of anti-Israel activism. In a submission to the Congressional Record on January 28, 2025, Dingell commended Siblani's advocacy for Arab lives. 

However, Siblani has previously hailed Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah as a "hero" and, during a 2024 rally in Dearborn, responded to chants of "death to Israel" by stating, "Believe me, they will take care of the job," an apparent reference to Hezbollah. He also directed a message to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Jews: "We will take you back to Poland."

These associations raise concerns about Rep. Dingell's alignment with individuals who have expressed extremist and antisemitic views, potentially influencing her stance on Middle Eastern policy and U.S.-Israel relations. 

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has also engaged with Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi of the Islamic House of Wisdom in Dearborn Heights, Michigan. 

In January 2021, she participated in a virtual prayer service led by Imam Elahi, during which she addressed the attendees and answered questions from the Muslim community in Michigan. ​

Additionally, Imam Elahi delivered a prayer at Governor Whitmer's inauguration ceremony for her second term on January 1, 2023.