Two prominent Arab American groups based in the Detroit metro area, Arab American PAC and Arab American News, have decided not to endorse a candidate for president. This decision was announced by the longtime publisher of Arab American News, Osama Siblani, following two days of intense joint meetings on the topic. The groups made this choice less than a month before the presidential election, recognizing the significance of Arab American voters as an important voting bloc in the battleground state of Michigan.
Siblani mentioned that the Arab American community initially showed enthusiasm for Vice President Kamala Harris at the start of her campaign over the summer. However, their perception of Harris has shifted, with Siblani stating that they now view her as no different from President Joe Biden or former President Donald Trump. He expressed disappointment in the lack of progress and concrete commitments from Harris, emphasizing the community's desire for a candidate who prioritizes peace and justice and refrains from sending US weaponry to Israel.
Despite Harris's recent efforts to engage with Arab American advocates in Michigan to garner support within the community, Siblani highlighted the community's need for a candidate who aligns with their values and concerns. The Arab American groups plan to communicate their decision to abstain from endorsing a candidate by sending a letter to approximately 75,000 homes in southeast Michigan later this week.
As the presidential election draws near, the Arab American community in Michigan remains focused on finding a candidate who reflects their aspirations for peace, justice, and a commitment to addressing their specific needs and concerns.
