A group that played a significant role in Donald Trump's voter outreach to the Arab American community is undergoing a rebranding effort. The group, formerly known as Arab Americans for Trump, has announced its new name as Arab Americans for Peace.
The decision to change the name came after President Trump's recent remarks regarding the U.S. potentially taking control of the Gaza Strip. During a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump proposed redeveloping the area into 'the Riviera of the Middle East,' a move that sparked opposition from the group.
Chairman Bishara Bahbah emphasized the group's stance against the transfer of Palestinians from Historic Palestine and highlighted their commitment to advocating for peace. Arab Americans for Trump had been actively involved in voter outreach efforts for Trump leading up to the 2024 presidential election, particularly in swing states like Michigan and Arizona.
The group, operating independently from the Trump campaign, facilitated meetings between Arab American community leaders and Trump's allies, including key figures like Richard Grenell and Massad Boulos. Trump's success in winning Dearborn, Michigan, a city with a significant Arab American population, during the 2024 election underscored the group's impact.
While the decision to change the name had been under consideration for some time, the group officially announced the rebranding as Arab Americans for Peace following Trump's press conference. In a statement, the group expressed appreciation for the president's offer to clean and rebuild Gaza but raised concerns over the suggestion of taking over Gaza and displacing its Palestinian inhabitants.
