Trump, Harris justle for Arab American votes in Michigan as elections draw close

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are locked in a fierce battle for Arab American votes in Michigan, a crucial swing state.

Harris in her comment about the raging situation in the embattled Middle East highlighted the need to “end the suffering” in the region, specifically referencing Israel’s conflict with Hamas and Hezbollah.

She called for seizing the opportunity to end the war in Gaza, bring hostages home, and halt the suffering once and for all.

Meanwhile, Trump visited Hamtramck, a Muslim-majority city, and received endorsement from Mayor Amer Ghalib, a Democrat. This move may help Trump tap into the community’s frustration with the Biden administration’s support for Israel’s Gaza offensive.

Key issues at play include the ongoing Middle East conflict, the crucial Arab American vote in Michigan, and Trump’s history of targeting Muslim countries with his travel ban.

Trump’s visit to Hamtramck and endorsement from Mayor Ghalib may impact his chances, despite his well-documented history of hostile rhetoric and policies.

Mayor Amer Ghalib, a Democrat, has endorsed Trump, while three Hamtramck city council members have endorsed Harris.

Earlier, the Arab American Political Action Committee (AAPAC) declared that it will not endorse either Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris or Republican former President Donald Trump in the upcoming November 5 US elections.

AAPAC’s decision stems from the candidates’ unwavering support for Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon, which the committee views as unacceptable.

Many members of these communities have personal connections to the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, having lost relatives or been affected by the violence. As a result, they have urged supporters not to vote for either Trump or Harris.

However, some advocacy groups, such as Emgage Action, have chosen to endorse Harris, citing Trump as a greater threat. This division highlights the complexity of the issue and the varying perspectives within the Arab and Muslim American communities.

As the election heats up, both candidates are fighting for every vote in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin – the “blue wall” states that will decide the outcome on November 5.