A controversial candidate for the University of Michigan Board of Regents has secured the Democratic nomination after party delegates voted at the state convention, despite backlash over past social media activity praising Hezbollah.
Amir Makled, a Dearborn-based attorney, emerged as one of the Democratic nominees for the influential university governing board following the Michigan Democratic Party’s convention vote this past weekend. The regent position will be on the ballot in November, with voters choosing from party-selected nominees rather than a traditional primary system.
Controversy Over Social Media Posts
Makled’s nomination comes after reports surfaced that he had shared and later deleted social media posts praising Hezbollah figures, including referring to the group’s late leader as a “martyr.”
The Washington Free Beacon continues:
His upset victory comes in the wake of the Washington Free Beacon’s revelation that Makled had reposted messages calling slain Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah a “martyr” and referred to him by the honorific “Sayed,” which translates to “Master.” Makled likewise shared a post saying Nasrallah’s security chief, Abu Ali Khalil, “was martyred in an ‘Israeli’ strike in Tehran,” adding, “May His Ascension rise High.” On the day Israel began its operation against the Islamic Republic last June, he shared a post from @IRIran_Military, a regime fan account, that called for Iran to “show no laxity in sacred war against the enemy.”
Hezbollah has been designated as a terrorist organization by various countries and international bodies at different times, with the United States being one of the first in 1997. The resurfaced posts quickly sparked criticism from political opponents, advocacy groups, and some within the Democratic coalition.
The controversy had immediate consequences. The Michigan chapter of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), a major labor group, withdrew its endorsement of Makled after the posts came to light, citing concerns about alignment with its values.
Despite Backlash, Delegates Move Forward
Even with the growing scrutiny, Makled secured enough delegate support at the convention to win the Democratic nomination — a key step in a race where party backing is often decisive.
The regent race has taken on heightened political significance this cycle, reflecting broader national tensions over Israel, campus protests, and the direction of higher education governance.
Makled has positioned himself as a progressive challenger, representing pro-Palestinian voices and criticizing university leadership over its handling of campus activism.
A Broader Political Flashpoint
The nomination underscores a growing divide within the Democratic Party, particularly on issues related to the Middle East.
While some party activists have rallied behind candidates like Makled, others have raised concerns about rhetoric tied to extremist groups and its potential impact on public institutions.
Observers say the outcome highlights how internal party dynamics — particularly at conventions dominated by activist delegates — can differ significantly from broader general-election electorates.
What Comes Next
Makled will now move on to the general election in November, where two seats on the University of Michigan Board of Regents are up for grabs.
The board plays a powerful role in overseeing one of the nation’s largest public universities, including decisions on budgets, leadership, and campus policy.
As the race moves forward, the controversy surrounding Makled’s past statements is expected to remain a central issue — both for his campaign and for critics who argue it raises broader questions about judgment and leadership.
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Every day you get confirmations that what we call Democrat Party is now a Communist Muslim supporting terrorist cabal