The Arab American Political Action Committee has decided not to endorse either Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris or Republican former President Donald Trump in the upcoming US elections. This is a significant break from their usual endorsement of Democratic candidates and is due to both Harris and Trump’s unwavering support for Israel in conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.
While polls show a tight race between Harris and Trump, Arab and Muslim Americans have been vocal about their opposition to US support for Israel, which has affected their support for Democrats. Trump has historically had low approval from these communities due to his past statements and policies targeting Muslim-majority nations.
The AAPAC stated, “Both candidates have endorsed genocide in Gaza and war in Lebanon.” This decision highlights the deep concerns within the Arab American community regarding the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Despite these issues, some groups have still chosen to support Harris, citing Trump as a bigger threat. The upcoming election will be pivotal for these communities as they navigate their choices amidst these challenging circumstances.