DEARBORN, Mich. — Osama Siblani’s phone is buzzing with calls.
Following President Joe Biden’s recent withdrawal from the presidential race, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic nomination, political leaders from both parties are turning to Siblani, the publisher of the Arab American News based in Dearborn. They are keen to know if Harris can win back the support of the Arab American community, which is concentrated in Metro Detroit.
Siblani responded, “We are in listening mode.”
As Harris quickly seeks to consolidate her position as the Democratic frontrunner, she must focus on winning the loyalty of Arab American voters in Michigan, a critical state for Democratic success in the upcoming elections.
Local community leaders are open to dialogue, with some already engaging with Harris’ team. Many have voiced frustration over perceived inaction during Biden’s presidency.
“There’s a chance for the Democratic nominee to rally the coalition that supported Biden’s candidacy four years ago. But this responsibility now rests with the vice president,” stated Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud.
Key Arab American figures like Hammoud and Siblani are closely monitoring Harris’ stance on pressing for a ceasefire. While they are enthusiastic about her candidacy, they want assurance that she will prioritize peace rather than align too closely with Israel.
Harris faces the challenge of maintaining alignment with Biden’s Israel policies while also addressing growing calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, where her administration has been exploring diplomatic solutions.
The divisions within the Democratic Party were highlighted during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent visit to Congress, where some Democrats expressed support, while others protested. Outside the Capitol, pro-Palestinian demonstrators faced law enforcement actions.
Michigan Representative Rashida Tlaib, the only Palestinian American in Congress whose district includes Dearborn, made headlines by holding a sign that labeled Netanyahu a “war criminal.”
Harris did not attend the address, opting instead for a campaign event in Indianapolis, which some Arab American leaders view as a gesture of goodwill amid her obligations as vice president, including a separate meeting with Netanyahu that week.
Harris’ first significant decision concerning the Arab American community will be her choice of running mate. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, who has publicly criticized pro-Palestinian protesters, is reportedly on her shortlist. His selection could heighten concerns among Arab American leaders regarding her administration’s support.
“If she chooses Shapiro, it doesn’t distinguish her from Biden; it signals a continuation of existing policies,” said Rima Meroueh, director of the National Network for Arab American Communities.
With Michigan housing the nation’s largest Arab American population, leaders assert that their votes carry crucial weight in swing states, as evidenced by Biden’s significant victory in Dearborn in the 2020 election.
In February, over 100,000 Michigan Democrats selected “uncommitted” in protest against Biden’s pro-Israel stance, resulting in two delegates for their cause. This collective discontent underscores the community’s demand for a reevaluation of U.S. foreign policy.
Groups advocating for a ceasefire have made clear demands, including an immediate arms embargo on Israel.
“If Harris endorsed an arms embargo, I would dedicate myself to her campaign until Election Day,” stated Abbas Alawieh, a Michigan delegate leading the uncommitted movement. “There’s a genuine opportunity to unify the coalition, but it’s up to her to take the lead, and we’re cautiously optimistic.”
Tensions within the party became apparent during a recent gathering of Michigan Democratic delegates, where a heated exchange underscored the existing divisions.
As Democrats prepare for their national convention in August, significant protests are anticipated, engendering further discussions among delegates about their demands.
Meanwhile, Trump’s campaign is actively pursuing the Arab American vote, despite his controversial past policies. A meeting involving numerous Arab American leaders and Trump’s representatives recently took place in Dearborn, where discussions centered on community support.
Amid the political maneuvering, Trump’s representatives conveyed that he is receptive to the idea of a two-state solution, a message that resonates within the community.
“Clear communication from Trump regarding a ceasefire and support for a two-state solution is what the community demands,” said Bishara Bahbah, chairman of Arab Americans for Trump.
Despite this, skepticism remains regarding Trump’s commitment to change, given his previous immigration policies that many Arab Americans found offensive.
“I have not encountered anyone rushing to support Trump; there’s a firm understanding of who he is,” remarked Mayor Hammoud.
Siblani, who facilitated the meeting with Trump’s surrogates, indicates that leaders across the spectrum are calling for a permanent ceasefire and transparent dialogue with the community.
“Everyone seeks our votes, but few are willing to acknowledge us publicly,” Siblani concluded.
