Detroit: In a move that could sway Michigan’s Arab American voters, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, the first Palestinian American woman in the U.S. Congress, refrained from endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris during a recent rally held by United Auto Workers here. Her decision underscores a widening rift within the Democratic Party as the Gaza genocide escalates, intensifying sentiments among Arab Americans.
Tlaib’s non-endorsement breaks rank with fellow progressive Democrats in “The Squad,” including Ayanna Pressley, Ilhan Omar, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, all of whom backed Harris in July. At the rally, Tlaib rallied the crowd, urging them to stand firm against corporate power, saying, “Don’t underestimate the power you all have… you have more power to turn out people that understand we’ve got to fight back against corporate greed in our country.”
Her stance comes amid rising frustration with her party’s handling of the Gaza issue. Tlaib openly criticised both major political parties, accusing Democrats of failing to support Palestinians in the face of ongoing violence.
“Our trauma and pain feel unseen and ignored by both parties,” Tlaib said in a recent interview. “Ignoring us won’t stop the genocide.” Michigan’s Arab American population, particularly Palestinian Americans, have been vocal in their criticism of US policy on Gaza. This has put Democrats in a delicate position, as Arab American voters in Michigan, which was instrumental in President Biden’s 2020 victory, are increasingly dissatisfied with the administration’s support for Israel.
Harris has maintained that Israel has a right to self-defence but has also called for “dignity and security” for Palestinians. Nonetheless, her stance has not eased the frustrations of Arab American constituents, many of whom seek a stronger stance against Israeli actions in Gaza.
