WASHINGTON, USA: The Arab American Political Action Committee (AAPAC) announced that it will not endorse either Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris or Republican former President Donald Trump in the upcoming US elections.
AAPAC, which traditionally backs Democratic candidates, cited both leaders’ “blind support” for Israel during conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon as the reason for its decision. This marks the first time since AAPAC’s founding in 1998 that it has opted not to endorse a candidate.
Arab and Muslim Americans have become increasingly critical of U.S. support for Israel, leading to declining support for the Democratic Party. The erosion of this backing could hurt Harris in key areas, as Arab and Muslim Americans had overwhelmingly supported Joe Biden in 2020. While Trump’s policies, such as the travel ban targeting Muslim-majority countries, have historically alienated these communities, both Harris and Trump have remained vocal supporters of Israel, even amid allegations of human rights abuses in Gaza and Lebanon.
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AAPAC emphasized that both candidates have backed policies it describes as contributing to violence in the region, making them untenable choices for the Arab American community. Despite their criticism of both major candidates, some advocacy groups like Emgage Action have still leaned toward Harris, viewing Trump as the greater threat.
Israel, for its part, denies accusations of genocide, stating that its actions in Gaza and Lebanon are in self-defence following attacks by Hamas and Hezbollah militants.
