DEARBORN, Mich. (AP) — Only 36 delegates out of the thousands expected at the Democratic National Convention on Monday will be part of the “uncommitted” movement, which was sparked by dissatisfaction with President Joe Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war.
Despite their small numbers, this group holds significant influence.
Concerns over U.S. support for Israel’s offensive in Gaza could lead to protests outside the Chicago arena where Harris is set to accept the nomination on Thursday.
Top Democrats have been engaging with “uncommitted” voters and their allies for weeks, including a meeting between Vice President Kamala Harris and the mayor of Dearborn, Michigan, in response to criticism in key swing states like Michigan with a significant Arab American population.
Efforts to reach an agreement with pro-Palestinian activists on endorsing an arms embargo to Israel and a permanent cease-fire have reached an impasse.
Michigan’s “uncommitted” delegate, Rima Mohammad, sees the convention as an opportunity to raise their concerns with party leadership.
The Democratic nominee meets a key Arab American mayor
Questions remain regarding the leverage of “uncommitted” voters now that Harris has taken Biden’s place. However, Harris and her team prioritize communication with Arab American leaders.
During a campaign trip to Michigan, Harris met with the mayor of Dearborn, Abdullah Hammoud, to discuss potential policy on the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Harris’ campaign reaffirmed her support for the current deals on a permanent cease-fire and hostage release, emphasizing ongoing dialogue with various communities.
Campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez also engaged with Arab American leaders and the “uncommitted” movement in metro Detroit.
The Democratic chair in Michigan, Lavora Barnes, highlighted the party’s commitment to uniting to defeat Donald Trump and Republicans.
No agreement on an arms embargo
Some Democrats have called for including a moratorium on the use of U.S.-made weapons by Israel in the party’s platform, but this is not reflected in the draft platform released earlier this summer.
The Uncommitted National Movement has requested a speaking slot at the convention and a meeting with Harris to discuss updating Gaza policy.
Despite initial openness from Harris, her national security adviser clarified her position against an arms embargo, leading to uncertainty regarding further responses from the campaign.
Arab American outreach by Trump’s team in Michigan aims to address concerns over Gaza under Biden’s administration and offer a voice for the community if Trump wins.
However, past remarks and policies by Trump may limit his appeal to the Arab American community and the “uncommitted” movement.
In conclusion, while Trump’s outreach in Michigan aims to deter support for Harris, challenges remain in overcoming past grievances and policy differences.
Associated Press writer Will Weissert in Washington contributed to this report.
