Abdul El-Sayed makes healthcare pitch in Michigan race

Abdul El-Sayed used a packed Detroit rally to make healthcare the centre of his closing pitch in Michigan's US Senate race, promising to expand government-funded coverage to all Americans.

El-Sayed, a doctor and former medical administrator, is the Democratic candidate in a race seen as important to control of the Senate. He told supporters that Americans should be able to see a doctor without facing large bills.

His campaign has built its message around free healthcare, removing money from politics and reducing household costs. Supporters at the rally said his healthcare message was driving enthusiasm before Tuesday's midterm elections.

El-Sayed is seeking to defeat Republican Mike Rogers. Republicans, including Rogers, say El-Sayed's healthcare plans would take away patients' ability to choose doctors and hospitals.

The rally followed a party dispute after Democratic Representative Haley Stevens, whom El-Sayed defeated in the primary, endorsed Rogers. El-Sayed said he was more interested in policy than politics. His campaign said it raised $2.4 million on Sunday, calling it a single-day record for the 42-year-old candidate.