DEARBORN, Mich. — As the Democratic National Convention approaches, only 36 delegates will represent the “uncommitted” movement, highlighting growing dissatisfaction with President Joe Biden’s approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Despite their small numbers, this group is expected to wield significant influence. The potential backlash from supporters of a U.S. arms embargo on Israel and demands for a cease-fire could lead to protests both outside and possibly inside the convention venue in Chicago.
Top Democrats have been actively engaging with “uncommitted” voters in key swing states like Michigan, where there is a substantial Arab American population. Notably, Vice President Kamala Harris recently met with Dearborn’s mayor to address concerns within this community.
Discussions between pro-Palestinian activists and Harris’ campaign have reached an impasse, with activists pressing for an arms embargo on Israel. While Harris has supported Biden’s efforts for a cease-fire, she has opposed the embargo.
Rima Mohammad, one of Michigan’s “uncommitted” delegates, emphasized the importance of the convention for voicing their concerns to party leaders.
“The convention is an opportunity for protestors to express their frustrations,” she stated.
As Harris takes the lead, questions arise regarding the influence of “uncommitted” voters. Recent increases in enthusiasm for her campaign have diminished previous concerns regarding voter apathy in areas like Detroit.
The Arab American community remains a focus for Harris and her team. During a recent visit to Michigan, she met with local leaders, including the young mayor of Dearborn. While details of the discussions remain private, the focus was on future policy regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict.
“Vice President Harris endorses the current proposals for a permanent cease-fire and hostages’ release,” her campaign affirmed, and noted her ongoing engagement with diverse community leaders.
Harris’ campaign manager has also been conducting meetings with Arab American leaders and supporters of the “uncommitted” movement in the Detroit area. Local community publisher Osama Siblani highlighted the necessity of public statements from Harris to gain votes within this demographic, stating, “They are listening, but public support is critical.”
According to Siblani, both parties acknowledged that “the killing has to stop,” yet the specific measures to achieve this remain unclear.
Lavora Barnes, Michigan’s Democratic chair, reiterated the party’s commitment to unifying efforts against the Republicans, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in party discussions.
Calls have emerged from the Democratic left to include a moratorium on U.S.-made weapons in the party’s platform during the convention. However, such proposals seem unlikely to receive support from close allies of Harris.
The Uncommitted National Movement has formally requested a speaking slot at the convention for a doctor from Gaza and a leader of their movement, seeking direct discussions with Harris regarding U.S. military aid to Israel.
In recent interactions, members of the “uncommitted” group expressed their hopes for further engagement with Harris regarding their policy concerns. However, after a recent meeting, despite initial openness from Harris, her national security advisor confirmed she does not back an arms embargo.
“It’s crucial that she seizes this opportunity to unite the party,” remarked Abbas Alawieh, a delegate involved with the movement.
In other developments, outreach efforts from the Trump campaign aim to engage the Arab American community, leveraging discontent with the Biden administration’s policies. While their strategy does not necessarily intend to convert voters for Trump, it seeks to mitigate support for Harris.
“We’re focused on ensuring that if they’re not voting for Trump, they remain home instead of voting for Harris,” Bahbah declared.
As the convention draws near, the dynamics of the “uncommitted” movement and their conversations with both Democratic leaders and competing parties will be crucial in shaping the political landscape leading up to the election.
