Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign for the U.S. presidency has recruited Brenda Abdelall, an Egyptian American lawyer and former Department of Homeland Security official, to lead outreach efforts to Arab American voters. These voters could be crucial in key battleground states, such as Michigan, that may determine the outcome of the November 5 election.
Abdelall’s role will focus on building support within a community discontented with U.S. backing for Israel in the ongoing Gaza conflict. Harris, a Democrat, is already engaged in a tight race with Republican candidate Donald Trump, and votes from Muslim and Arab Americans could significantly impact the election’s outcome.
In addition to Abdelall, Harris has brought on Afghan American lawyer Nasrina Bargzie to handle outreach to Muslim American voters. This effort comes as Harris faces increasing pressure from activists who are frustrated by the Biden administration’s stance on Israel, which they hold her partially responsible for.
The state of Michigan, where Harris is expected to visit soon, hosts one of the largest Muslim and Arab American populations in the U.S. In the 2020 election, President Joe Biden garnered substantial support from these communities. However, his unwavering support for Israel during the Gaza conflict has left many feeling alienated, leading to the launch of an “uncommitted” campaign against him in the Democratic nominating process.
While pro-Palestinian activists are unlikely to shift their support to Trump, some have initiated a campaign called “Abandon Harris,” encouraging voters to back third-party candidates instead. Harris is facing criticism from these groups for her perceived alignment with the current U.S. policy on Israel and Gaza, which they argue shows no meaningful break from the status quo.
Despite these challenges, Harris’ campaign remains committed to securing the support of Arab and Muslim Americans, recognizing their potential influence in deciding the election.
