Far-left Twitch streamer Hasan Piker has made headlines with his bold statements during his livestreams. On Friday, he declared his intention to express hatred for America as his ‘God-given’ and ‘constitutionally protected right’.

Piker was responding to criticism aimed at Democratic Michigan U.S. Senate hopeful Abdul El-Sayed, who had been linked to Piker’s past statements. A political ad featured clips where Piker said, ‘I hate this country, dude. I hate America,’ reflecting intense views.

El-Sayed, a progressive candidate, faced criticism for his association with Piker. On his Friday show, Piker indicated his frustration was directed at the actions of the American government rather than the nation itself. He defended his right to voice discontent, even amidst harsh criticism from liberals and the Republican Party.

Piker asserted, ‘It is my God-given and constitutionally protected right to say I hate America if America is actually harming Americans.’

He expressed anger over government inefficiencies in addressing societal challenges such as healthcare, hunger, and homelessness, despite the country’s wealth. He communicated disbelief at those who were not angered by these issues.

Piker has previously been at the center of controversy, including remarks suggesting America deserved the 9/11 attacks. Fox News Digital reached out for comment.

El-Sayed has since sought to distance himself from Piker in the general election, highlighting disagreements with Piker’s extreme language. Piker admitted the language he used was controversial, though he defended his critique of U.S. policies in the Middle East.

In an interview at the Socialism Conference in Chicago, Piker reflected on his word choice in criticizing American interference abroad.

Lindsay Kornick, associate editor for Fox News Digital, welcomes story tips at [email protected] or via Twitter @lmkornick.