In a notable shift regarding political endorsements, The Arab American News has decided not to support Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming presidential election. Traditionally aligned with Democratic candidates, the newspaper’s decision stems from concerns related to the recent escalation of the conflict in Gaza and its implications for the Arab-American community. Publisher Osama Siblani articulated the disillusionment felt within the community, stating that the actions of both Harris and her opponent, Donald Trump, do not align with the interests of Arab-Americans, particularly in light of the suffering experienced overseas due to American military involvement. This move reflects a broader dissatisfaction with the lack of meaningful engagement from the political establishment regarding their plight.
Siblani emphasized the grave humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon, which has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians and widespread destruction. The publisher expressed frustration over the absence of acknowledgment from Harris and Trump regarding the community’s demands for peace and a cessation of violence. He pointed out that their homes and families are affected by the conflict fueled by American-made munitions. Given this context, Siblani argued that endorsing either candidate would not be an appropriate response to the community’s needs, leading to the decision to refrain from supporting them altogether.
This disappointment is compounded by the Arab American community’s previous support for President Joe Biden in the 2020 elections, when approximately 70% of Arab-American voters cast their ballots in his favor. Siblani expressed a sense of betrayal, highlighting the promises made by Biden and Harris to include the community in future discussions and decision-making processes—a promise he feels has not been realized. The absence of representation and engagement at various levels of government continues to alienate Arab-Americans, intensifying feelings of disenfranchisement that have been festering for years.
In the wake of their non-endorsement, Harris’s political strategy in pivotal states like Michigan, where a significant Arab-American population resides, appears to be at risk. The Arab American News’s stance symbolizes a growing rift between candidates and the Arab-American electorate, reflecting how critical foreign policy issues impact domestic political landscapes. While the non-endorsement might not drastically alter electoral outcomes, it serves as an important indicator of dissatisfaction that can affect voter turnout and engagement within the community.
Historically, The Arab American News has been a vocal supporter of Democratic candidates, with their last non-Democratic endorsement occurring in 2000 for Green Party candidate Ralph Nader, known for his strong positions on Middle Eastern issues. Presently, the newspaper’s reluctance to endorse a candidate is further underscored by their retweets of posts supporting Green Party candidate Jill Stein, suggesting a shift in political allegiance that may influence voter choices ahead of the election. Such gestures indicate a frustration within the community that could signal a re-evaluation of long-standing voting patterns among Arab-Americans.
Ultimately, the Arab American News’s decision not to endorse Kamala Harris demonstrates a significant political moment that emphasizes the importance of addressing the concerns of diverse communities within the electoral process. The failure to listen to their voices and the ongoing humanitarian crises affecting their families and friends overseas could lead to greater alienation from the political mainstream. As the election approaches, candidates will need to earn the trust and support of the Arab-American community by acknowledging their concerns and addressing the critical foreign policy issues that matter most. This situation exemplifies how deeply international affairs resonate within domestic electoral politics and the necessity for candidates to develop more inclusive and responsive platforms.