Arab and Muslim communities in Michigan are expressing discontent with President Biden’s policies, particularly regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Many feel that Biden’s support for Israel during the conflict has been insufficient and are considering withholding their support in the upcoming election.
A reported “Abandon Biden” campaign is urging community members to vote in a way that ensures Biden does not retain the presidency.
“If the president wants to start that process, it’s only feasible through a cease-fire [in Gaza],” Rep. Alabas Farhat said. “That’s the only way you can even restart the conversation.”
Polls suggest a significant drop in support for Biden among Arab Americans, with concerns about his response to the Israel-Gaza violence.
“And then your president wants to come to your community and make sure that you’re still going to vote with him and vote for him in November,” Imam Omar Sulemain said. “I hope you’ve sent him the right message.”
“For decades, we’ve squandered the power that we have here because [Democrats] were stringing us along, saying, ‘Vote for me, we’re not the other guy,’” Michigan State University assistant professor Shireen Al-Adeimi said. “This is such a dangerous time that we’re finally willing to use that card, and [Biden] thinks we’re bluffing.”
Al-Adeimi said that many supporters of a cease-fire were not Arab or Muslim. “That gives us power to say we don’t have to be afraid anymore to express our views and our ideas about this,” she said.
Despite Biden’s efforts to engage with these communities, there is a growing sentiment of disappointment and a willingness to challenge traditional voting patterns.
“President Biden knows the importance of earning the trust of every community, of upholding the sacred dignity and rights of all Americans,” Biden campaign spokesman Ammar Moussa stated.
“President Biden is working closely and proudly with leaders in the Muslim, Arab American and Palestinian communities in America, to listen to them about a wide range of issues, stand up for them, and fight back against hate. President Biden has also expressed deep concern about the deaths of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. He has urged Israel to do everything possible to avoid civilian casualties. He has also successfully pressed for humanitarian aid to be delivered in Gaza.”