El Paso Republican Chair Plans Lawsuit Over Upcoming Ali G Film Appearance

Michael Aboud, the Chair for the El Paso County Republican Party, reportedly intends to initiate legal action against comedian Sacha Baron Cohen following his portrayal in Cohen's upcoming satirical film, 'Ali G: Who Iz I?'[1]. The film, a mockumentary directed by Baron Cohen and set for release by Amazon MGM Studios on October 23, 2026, features Aboud participating in what he believed to be a documentary, which allegedly resulted in significant embarrassment[1][6][15].

This incident matters to readers as it highlights the ongoing tension between satirical comedy and public figures, particularly politicians, and brings renewed attention to Sacha Baron Cohen's long-standing methods of eliciting unscripted reactions from unwitting participants.

What the Records Show

Michael Aboud holds the position of Chair for the El Paso County Republican Party, according to his campaign website and the official El Paso Republican Party website[2][3]. Historical records also show his involvement in the county GOP leadership[4]. The core of Aboud's complaint stems from an alleged 'training program' segment within 'Ali G: Who Iz I?'[1]. According to a report by The Guardian, Aboud was filmed engaging with one of Cohen’s characters, Colonel Erran Morad, an ex-Mossad terrorist expert[1][5]. During this segment, Morad reportedly instructed Aboud and other “Maga sympathisers” in self-defense techniques that included wearing protective plastic buttocks over their clothing[1]. The report further details instructions on how to simulate firing bullets from these buttocks through the repeated manipulation of a rubber penis[1].

The Timeline

Filming for 'Ali G: Who Iz I?' occurred in secret, consistent with Sacha Baron Cohen's past productions[7]. The film is Baron Cohen's feature directorial debut[6][7][15]. Amazon MGM Studios is releasing the film in theaters on October 23, 2026[15][16][17][18]. News of Michael Aboud's reported intent to sue emerged on October 22, 2026, the day before the film's scheduled release[1].

What Changed and For Whom

Aboud's participation in the film has led to public embarrassment and his stated intention to sue Sacha Baron Cohen[1]. This incident places a spotlight on Aboud, a local political figure, just as the film is set to reach audiences[1][2][3]. Sacha Baron Cohen has a history of engaging public figures, including politicians, in scenarios that lead to their embarrassment[5][10]. Past legal challenges against Cohen's work, such as a $95 million defamation lawsuit by former Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Roy Moore, have typically been dismissed[10][11][13]. Moore's lawsuit, for example, was dismissed because he had signed a disclosure agreement waiving legal claims related to his appearance with the Erran Morad character in 'Who Is America?'[10].

What the Subject Has Said Publicly

Michael Aboud has publicly expressed outrage, reportedly labeling Sacha Baron Cohen as 'a liar and a pervert' in response to the incident and his depiction in the film, according to The Guardian's headline[1]. Sacha Baron Cohen has not specifically commented on Aboud's situation. However, he has defended his work more broadly against accusations of perpetuating stereotypes, stating that his satire is intended to expose prejudice and stupidity[8][9].

What We Could Not Confirm

It could not be confirmed whether Michael Aboud has formally filed a lawsuit against Sacha Baron Cohen or Amazon MGM Studios as of October 22, 2026. The specific terms of any agreement or waiver Aboud may have signed prior to his appearance in the film could not be confirmed. Sacha Baron Cohen's direct response to Aboud's reported intent to sue could not be confirmed.