The passing of country music icon Dolly Parton led to numerous heartfelt tributes from Americans across the country. However, Abdul El-Sayed, a Democratic Senate nominee from Michigan, faced criticism online for his tribute to Parton, which some saw as politicizing her death.

El-Sayed posted on social media shortly after Parton died at the age of 80 following a brief cancer battle. He wrote, “Dolly Parton used her gift for music to highlight the challenges of poverty, inequality, and struggle in ways that uplifted and inspired working people.” He also quoted lyrics from Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors.”

His post received significant backlash, with many users on social media platforms accusing him of using Parton’s death for political purposes. The post was criticized more than it was praised, leading to what is known in social media terms as being “ratioed.”

Several users and commentators expressed their disapproval. Sam Janney, Managing Editor at Twitchy, commented, “Leave it to you to exploit her death for political gain.” Washington Free Beacon’s Chuck Ross remarked, “I didn’t think anyone would actually politicize Dolly Parton’s death, but here we are.”

Additional reactions included critical comments from Townhall Media’s Storm Paglia and the Senate Leadership Fund’s Chloe Smith. One user commented that El-Sayed is “no fan of Dolly” and accused him of pretending to relate to America’s working poor.

“Your religious laws would have had her covered from head to toe and restricted her from playing music or expressing herself publicly,” one social media user stated.

El-Sayed’s past defense of Sharia law has also been a contentious topic. In the wake of Parton’s death, many questioned his sincerity in quoting her lyrics.

Dolly Parton died in Nashville, Tennessee, as confirmed by a press release. She is remembered for her contributions to music and her business ventures, including Dollywood. Some of her most popular songs are “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “Here You Come Again,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You,” with the latter gaining renewed popularity when covered by Whitney Houston.

The Dollywood Foundation and Imagination Library were significant parts of Parton’s charitable work, leaving an enduring impact. In a statement, Parton’s team shared, “Our beloved Dolly Parton spent her life and career bringing joy, laughter, hope, and integrity into everything she touched.”

Andrew Mark Miller reported this for Fox News Digital. Contact him on Twitter @andymarkmiller or via email at [email protected].