Trump vs. Harris: A Polling Surprise Among Arab-American Voters
In a twist that would make even the most seasoned political analyst raise an eyebrow, a recent survey from Arab News/YouGov reveals that Donald Trump holds a slight edge over Kamala Harris among Arab-American voters. Trump garnered 45% of voting intentions, while Harris trailed closely behind with 43%. And let’s not forget the Green Party’s Jill Stein, who must be feeling positively buoyed by her 4% support—an outcome that was probably met with applause at her last family gathering.
Now, before we start picturing Trump brandishing a “Back to the Future” DeLorean filled with Arab-American voters, it’s crucial to understand the context. Just three years ago, 60% of Arab-American voters preferred Joe Biden. Fast-forward to today, and it seems like some folks are ready to hand a metaphorical boot to the Biden administration for its policies concerning Gaza and Lebanon. This restless electorate could potentially deal a devastating blow to Harris’s campaign in key states like Michigan and Pennsylvania. And by “devastating,” I mean Trump-like, as in, too much orange and not enough decorum.
Now, let’s dissect a couple of things while holding a winner’s trophy made of sarcasm. Despite Trump’s lead, most voters seem to recognize he is about as supportive of Arab-American interests as a cat is supportive of a room full of laser pointers. Most perceive Trump as being exceptionally cozy with the Israeli government, while Kamala Harris is viewed as more sympathetic to national concerns and the difficulties Arab Americans face. It’s almost like they see her as the “mom” everyone wishes they had—fostering understanding while keeping a watchful eye on the shenanigans.
(Anyone want to place bets that “mom” isn’t a frequent descriptor in Harris’s campaign strategy?)
However, hold the phone: 46% of respondents believe that under Trump’s watch, we could see an increase in racism and attacks against Arab Americans. I know! Shocking that a man who famously said he’d “never apologize” would stoke racial fires. It’s practically a “how to” manual for public relations disasters.
Buckle Up for the Election Drama
So, what are we to make of this surprising polling turn? One reaction is sheer disbelief: Kamala Harris pulling in 43% among Arab Americans seems wildly optimistic compared to the way the media often portrays her chances. It’s like she’s the movie that barely made it past the critics but somehow keeps winning awards—everyone’s confused but mildly entertained.
(And here I thought numbers were only supposed to go downhill in politics—like a rollercoaster of disappointment!)
As we look ahead toward the 2024 elections, one thing is for sure: it will be anything but dull. With Trump at the helm, Harris contending fiercely, and Stein trying to hold onto the crumbs of disillusionment, expect the drama to unfold like a badly scripted sitcom. Grab your popcorn, folks—this campaign trail is about to become the hottest ticket in town.
For those feeling generous, we just launched our final fundraising campaign for the blog this Monday morning. A huge thank you to all who have supported thus far, and here’s hoping the rest of you come through—like a last-minute save in a sports flick!
(Photo: Reuters)
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Donald Trump enjoys a slim lead over Kamala Harris among Arab-American voters, according to a new survey Arab News/YouGov whose results were shared with the information site Traffic lights. The former president received 45% of voting intentions compared to 43% for Kamala Harris and 4% for Green Party candidate Jill Stein, who accuses Israel of genocide. In 2020, six in ten Arab-American voters preferred Joe Biden to Trump. The survey ofArab News therefore confirms that Arab-American voters are ready to punish the vice-presidency for the Biden administration’s policy towards the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, which could hurt him in Michigan and Pennsylvania.
However, these voters have no illusions about Trump. They perceive the former president as more supportive of the Israeli government, while Harris is seen as more sensitive to national needs and the issues of Arab Americans in the United States. A plurality of them – 46% – also believe that racism and attacks against Arab-Americans are more likely to increase under a Trump administration.
Several reactions are possible to the results of this survey. It is particularly surprising that Harris received 43% of Arab-American voting intentions, while media reports on this electorate often give the impression that she would be lucky to get away with 2% of this bereaved electorate. and outraged.
PS: This Monday morning we launched the third and final fundraising campaign for this blog in 2024. Thank you wholeheartedly to those who have already contributed, as well as to others who will follow suit shortly!
(Photo Reuters)
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Categories: United States, War, Politics•Tags: Donald Trump, Gaza, Israel, Kamala Harris, Lebanon•
(And here I thought “neither” would have more votes than “Jill!”)