“What’s happening in Gaza should be a top concern not just for Muslims, but for all of humanity,” says Thasin Sardar, a board member at the Islamic Society of Greater Lansing in Michigan involved in the Uncommitted Campaign — a protest campaign seeking to pressure the Democratic Party to shift its policy towards Israel amid the Gaza war.
Recent survey results conducted in three swing states (Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Michigan) by the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU) found that the war on Gaza is a top policy concern for the majority of Muslim voters (61%), as well as a top issue for Muslims across all gender, age, race, and partisan lines.
The survey revealed shifts in Muslim voter support, with many who voted for Biden in 2020 now considering third-party candidates instead. Muslims are calling for a policy shift, including an end to US military aid to Israel.
Rejecting evil
A poll conducted by ISPU earlier this year showed majority support for a ceasefire among both Muslim and Jewish Democrats. Despite mixed endorsements for Harris, Muslim concerns over Gaza remain high.
Young Muslim voters, including students, are actively voicing their disapproval of Harris over her handling of the Gaza crisis, with some leaning towards voting for third-party candidates.
Making pragmatic but less palatable choices
The divisions within the Muslim community highlight the complexity of the decision-making process, with concerns over rewarding the current administration influencing voting choices.
Despite differing opinions, the importance of voting is emphasized, with various campaigns encouraging civic engagement.
Written by Nada Shalash, an Egyptian-American writer based in New Jersey.