In Dearborn, Michigan, a small group of “uncommitted” Democratic National Convention delegates, consisting of 36 members, have expressed dissatisfaction with President Joe Biden’s stance during the Israel-Hamas conflict. Despite their small numbers, this group holds significant influence within the party. Concerns over U.S. support for Israel have led to potential protests both inside and outside the convention venue in Chicago, where Vice President Kamala Harris is set to accept the nomination on Thursday.
In response to criticisms from swing states like Michigan, where there is a sizeable Arab American population, top Democrats have engaged in discussions with the “uncommitted” delegates and their supporters. Efforts to reconcile differences between the activists and the Harris campaign have not reached a resolution. While the activists push for Harris to endorse an arms embargo on Israel and a permanent cease-fire, Harris has backed Biden’s pursuit of a cease-fire but rejected the idea of an arms embargo.
One of Michigan’s “uncommitted” delegates, Rima Mohammad, views the convention as an opportunity to voice their concerns to party leadership and allow protesters outside to express their frustrations with the party. Despite the transition from Biden to Harris as the frontrunner, the leverage held by the “uncommitted” voters remains uncertain. Harris’s campaign continues to prioritize communication with Arab American leaders, as seen in her recent meeting with the mayor of Dearborn, Abdullah Hammoud.
The Democratic Party in Michigan assures ongoing dialogue with community leaders, activists, and organizations to unify efforts in defeating Donald Trump and the Republicans. Calls from the left-wing of the party to include a moratorium on the use of U.S.-made weapons by Israel in the party platform have not been heeded. Requests for speaking slots at the convention from the Uncommitted National Movement and a meeting with Harris to discuss updating Gaza policy have not yet resulted in concrete commitments from the campaign.
Meanwhile, Trump’s outreach to the Arab American community in Detroit, led by figures such as Massad Boulos and Bishara Bahbah, aims to highlight contrasting viewpoints on Gaza under Biden’s administration and promises of inclusivity if Trump is re-elected. However, the potential political gains for Trump may be hindered by past policies and remarks widely viewed as offensive by many Arabs. Despite these efforts, the strategy may not necessarily aim at converting voters to support Trump but rather discouraging support for Harris.
As tensions and discussions continue among various factions ahead of the convention, the focus remains on addressing concerns within the Arab American community and navigating the complexities of foreign policy positions in the region.
