Michigan's Arab American PAC Withholds Historic Endorsement, Cites Harris and Trump's 'Blind Support' for Israel

Oct 14, 2024, 11:45 PM

The Arab American Political Action Committee (AAPAC), based in Detroit, Michigan, has announced it will not endorse Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris or Republican former President Donald Trump in the upcoming presidential election. This marks the first time in the group's history that it has declined to back the Democratic nominee, having previously endorsed Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton. The decision is attributed to what AAPAC describes as the candidates' "blind support" for Israel in recent conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, accusing them of supporting "genocide in Gaza." The lack of endorsement reflects growing concerns within Michigan's sizable Arab-American community, a crucial demographic in the key battleground state, and poses a significant challenge for Harris as she seeks to win over these voters. Other influential organizations within Michigan's Arab community, such as the Dearborn-based publication 'Arab American News,' are also withholding endorsements.