DEARBORN, Mich. (AP) — At the Democratic National Convention, only 36 delegates will belong to the “uncommitted” movement, which was sparked by dissatisfaction with President Joe Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war.
Despite their small numbers, the “uncommitted” delegates have an outsized influence. There are concerns about potential protests both inside and outside the Chicago arena where Vice President Kamala Harris will accept the nomination on Thursday.
Top Democrats have been meeting with “uncommitted” voters and their allies in swing states like Michigan, where there is a significant Arab American population. The activists are pushing for an arms embargo to Israel and a permanent cease-fire, but Harris has only supported Biden’s negotiations for a cease-fire.
Rima Mohammad, one of Michigan’s two “uncommitted” delegates, sees the convention as an opportunity to voice their concerns to the party leadership and share their frustrations.
The Democratic nominee meets a key Arab American mayor
While there has been a surge in enthusiasm for Harris’ campaign, the “uncommitted” voters still hold some leverage. Harris has been prioritizing communication with Arab American leaders, including meeting with the mayor of Dearborn, Michigan, Abdullah Hammoud.
During the convention, there will be panel discussions addressing Arab and Palestinian issues and Jewish American issues. Campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez has been holding meetings with leaders in the Arab American community and the “uncommitted” movement in metro Detroit.
No agreement on an arms embargo
Some on the Democratic Party’s left have called for including a moratorium on the use of U.S.-made weapons by Israel in the platform of policy goals for the convention. The “uncommitted” movement has requested a speaking slot and a meeting with Harris to discuss updating the Gaza policy.
Leaders of the “uncommitted” movement have met with senior staff from the DNC and the Harris campaign, but no agreement has been reached on an arms embargo. The focus is on uniting the party and addressing the concerns of the movement.
The Trump campaign continues its outreach
In contrast, the Trump campaign is also reaching out to the Arab American community, highlighting the situation in Gaza under Biden’s administration. Trump’s team promises a seat at the table and a voice to be heard for the community if he wins.
However, Trump’s past remarks and policies may limit his appeal to the Arab American community. Many are still offended by his immigration ban and remarks about Muslims. The Trump campaign’s strategy is focused on stopping voters from supporting Harris, even if they may not vote for Trump.
Associated Press writer Will Weissert in Washington contributed to this report.
