A Republican-linked group has launched a digital ad campaign targeting Michigan voters regarding Vice President Kamala Harris' stance on Israel. The move comes as Harris navigates the delicate balance of her messaging on the issue while also engaging with Arab American voters in the crucial battleground state.
Michigan boasts a significant Arab American population, with approximately 13% of the state's Democratic primary voters, over 100,000 individuals, opting to remain 'uncommitted' rather than voting for President Joe Biden during the primary election earlier this year. This was largely seen as a signal of disapproval towards the administration's actions concerning the conflict in Gaza.
The digital ad features a narrator emphasizing Vice President Harris' alignment with Israel and the Jewish people. It highlights her hosting of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington, DC, and her handling of protesters during the visit. The ad asserts that Harris has consistently stood with Israel and underscores the strong bond between the U.S. and Israel.
The 30-second video has been circulating on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat in Michigan, as indicated by Meta and Snapchat data. The advertisements were purchased by the Future Coalition PAC, a recently established political action committee with Ray Zaborney, a Republican strategist, listed as its treasurer in FEC documentation.
The ad campaign aims to position Harris as a steadfast supporter of Israel, a stance that has garnered praise from some quarters while drawing criticism from supporters of a free Palestine. The messaging underscores the complexities of navigating foreign policy issues within the context of domestic politics, particularly in states with diverse and politically engaged populations like Michigan.
