[MIDDLE EAST] The Arab American Political Action Committee (AAPAC) has made a groundbreaking decision in the lead-up to the 2024 US presidential election. For the first time since its inception in 1998, the influential organization has chosen not to endorse either of the major party candidates, Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris or Republican former President Donald Trump. This move marks a significant shift in Arab American political engagement and underscores the growing dissatisfaction within the community regarding US foreign policy in the Middle East.
The Reasoning Behind AAPAC's Decision
AAPAC's decision stems from what they perceive as both candidates' "blind support" for Israel, particularly in light of the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. The organization's statement was unequivocal: "Both candidates have endorsed genocide in Gaza and war in Lebanon. We simply cannot give our votes to either Democrat Kamala Harris or Republican Donald Trump, who blindly support the criminal Israeli government."
This stance reflects a broader sentiment within the Arab American community, which has become increasingly vocal about its opposition to US support for Israel's military actions. The conflict in Gaza has resulted in a staggering death toll, with nearly 42,000 Palestinians killed according to the local health ministry. The situation in Lebanon is equally dire, with over 2,000 deaths reported by the Lebanese government.
The Impact on the 2024 Election
The decision by AAPAC not to endorse either candidate could have significant implications for the upcoming election. Arab and Muslim Americans, who overwhelmingly supported Joe Biden in the 2020 election, have become disillusioned with the Democratic Party's unwavering support for Israel. This shift in sentiment could potentially impact the outcome in key battleground states with significant Arab American populations, such as Michigan.
Michigan: A Crucial Battleground
Michigan, home to a substantial Arab American community, particularly in cities like Dearborn, has become a focal point in this political shift. AAPAC, based in Dearborn, typically endorses Democratic candidates. Their decision to withhold endorsement this year sends a powerful message about the community's priorities and concerns.
The organization stated, "By not voting for either Donald Trump or Kamala Harris, we are not staying silent — to the contrary, we are making a powerful statement and sending a clear message: We refuse to endorse candidates who do not care about us or our concerns, continue to divide America, and are complicit in an active genocide."
The Candidates' Positions and Community Response
Both Harris and Trump have maintained strong pro-Israel stances throughout their political careers. Harris, in particular, has faced criticism for her recent efforts to court Arab and Muslim voters while simultaneously supporting Israel's military actions.
Harris's Outreach Efforts
In recent weeks, Vice President Harris and her team have engaged with Arab and Muslim community leaders in an attempt to build connections ahead of the election2. However, many advocates argue that these efforts are insufficient as long as Harris continues to support military aid to Israel and aligns with President Biden's unqualified backing of the ally.
Trump's History with the Community
Trump, on the other hand, has historically had low approval ratings among Arab and Muslim Americans, partly due to his past statements and policies, including the travel ban targeting Muslim-majority nations during his presidency. Despite this, his strong support for Israel aligns him with Harris on this particular issue in the eyes of many Arab American voters.
The Broader Impact on Arab American Political Engagement
AAPAC's decision reflects a growing trend of political disillusionment among Arab Americans. Other organizations, such as the Uncommitted Movement in Michigan, have also chosen not to endorse Harris, although they have urged voters not to support Trump.
This shift in political engagement raises questions about the future of Arab American voting patterns and their influence on US foreign policy. As AAPAC stated, "Our votes matter, and withholding them will show that we cannot be ignored or taken for granted."
The Role of Other Muslim and Arab American Organizations
While AAPAC has taken a strong stance against both major candidates, not all Arab and Muslim American organizations have followed suit. Emgage Action, for instance, has backed Harris, citing Trump as a greater threat. This division within the community highlights the complex political landscape that Arab and Muslim Americans are navigating.
Criticism of Endorsements
The endorsement of Harris by some organizations has faced backlash from within the community. Palestinian American activist and comedian Amer Zahr criticized Emgage's endorsement, calling it a "slap in the face" to the community. He argued that such endorsements prioritize securing federal appointments over addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon.
The Broader Context: US Foreign Policy and the Middle East
AAPAC's decision is set against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the US's role in these conflicts. The organization's statement referred to both Harris and Trump as having "endorsed genocide in Gaza and war in Lebanon," reflecting the strong emotions and high stakes involved in this issue.
The Gaza Conflict
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the Israeli assault resulting in a massive death toll and the displacement of nearly the entire population. The humanitarian crisis has sparked outrage and calls for action from Arab and Muslim Americans, as well as human rights organizations worldwide.
The Lebanon Situation
In Lebanon, where Israel says it is targeting Iran-backed Hezbollah militants, the death toll has surpassed 2,000. The escalation of violence in this region has further fueled criticism of US foreign policy and its support for Israel's military actions.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Arab American Political Engagement
AAPAC's decision not to endorse either major party candidate raises important questions about the future of Arab American political engagement. Will this move inspire other organizations to take similar stands? How will it impact voter turnout among Arab Americans in crucial swing states?
The organization's statement emphasized that their decision is not about staying silent, but rather about making a powerful statement4. This approach suggests a shift towards more active and assertive political engagement, one that demands that candidates address the concerns of Arab American voters directly and substantively.
The decision by AAPAC not to endorse either Harris or Trump for the 2024 presidential election marks a significant moment in Arab American political history. It reflects the community's growing frustration with US foreign policy in the Middle East and signals a demand for substantial change.
As the election approaches, both major parties will need to grapple with this shift in sentiment among Arab American voters. The outcome of this election could have far-reaching implications not only for US domestic politics but also for its foreign policy in the Middle East.
Ultimately, AAPAC's stand serves as a reminder of the power of political engagement and the importance of holding leaders accountable to the diverse communities they serve. As the organization stated, "Our votes matter, and withholding them will show that we cannot be ignored or taken for granted." This message is likely to resonate far beyond the Arab American community, potentially influencing the broader political landscape in the United States.
