Arab American leaders in Michigan skip meeting with Biden’s campaign manager

Arab American leaders from Dearborn, Michigan, skip a meeting with President Joe Biden’s campaign manager, due to frustration perceived lack of action in calling for a ceasefire in Gaza

A group of Arab American leaders from Dearborn, Michigan, opted to skip a scheduled meeting with President Joe Biden’s campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, on Friday. The meeting was organized ahead of a potential visit by Biden to the battleground state on Feb. 1.

According to Ahmad Chebbani, co-founder and chair of the Arab American Chamber of Commerce, a majority of the 15 invited leaders decided to abstain from the meeting due to frustration and anger with Biden’s perceived lack of action in calling for a ceasefire in Israel’s assault on Gaza. Chebbani stated, “We’re not interested. Only when a ceasefire has been announced and the people of Gaza are taken care of, then will a discussion be appropriate.”

While the Biden campaign had no immediate comment, a White House spokeswoman declined to confirm Biden’s travel plans or events in Michigan.

The incident occurs amid broader discontent over the conflict in Gaza, with a majority of Americans favoring a ceasefire. Biden’s support for Israel is raising concerns, especially in battleground states like Michigan, where Arab Americans constitute 5% of the vote.

Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud also announced his decision not to participate in the meeting, expressing, “I will not entertain conversations about elections while we watch a live-streamed genocide backed by our government.”

The World Court issued an order on Friday, urging Israel to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians and do more to help civilians. However, it stopped short of ordering a ceasefire, as requested by South Africa.

Despite the discontent, the Biden campaign source emphasized that the meeting was part of the ongoing dialogue with core constituency groups, and the campaign would continue “to have thoughtful conversations with groups.” The potential visit next week involves meetings with the United Auto Workers Union and potential engagements with the Arab American community.

Source: Reuters