As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, some Muslim American voters are showing a preference for third-party candidate Jill Stein over Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump. This shift is largely attributed to dissatisfaction with U.S. policies regarding Israel and Gaza, which have been a significant issue for many in the Muslim and Arab American communities.
Recent polls, such as one conducted by the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), indicate that Jill Stein is gaining notable support among Muslim American voters, particularly in key battleground states. For example, in Michigan, where there is a large Arab American population, 40% of Muslim voters indicated their support for Stein, compared to 18% for Trump and 12% for Harris. Stein’s campaign has resonated with these voters due to her strong stance on the Gaza conflict, advocating for a permanent ceasefire and a U.S. arms embargo on Israel.
Kamala Harris, despite leading in states like Georgia and Pennsylvania among Muslim voters, faces criticism for not sufficiently addressing the concerns of Palestinian Americans and other Muslim voters. Her campaign’s refusal to halt or limit U.S. arms shipments to Israel has been a significant point of contention. While she has voiced sympathy for Palestinians and supported a two-state solution, her actions have not fully satisfied many in the community.
Donald Trump, on the other hand, has also been engaging with Arab and Muslim voters, promising swift peace in the Middle East. However, his firm support for Israel and past statements blaming mail-in ballots for his 2020 defeat have alienated some voters. Despite this, he has found support among certain segments, especially with his promises of more Arab-Israeli peace deals.
The support for Jill Stein among Muslim American voters could significantly impact the election outcomes in battleground states. In states like Michigan, Arizona, and Wisconsin, where Muslim and Arab American communities are sizable, the votes that shift to Stein could deny Harris and Trump critical victories. This dynamic is reminiscent of the 2016 election, where some Democrats blamed Stein for siphoning votes away from Hillary Clinton.
For Muslim American voters, Jill Stein appears to be a preferable candidate over Harris or Trump, primarily due to her stance on issues related to Gaza and Palestine. Her campaign’s focus on ending the conflict and addressing human rights concerns aligns closely with the priorities of many in the Muslim community. While Harris and Trump continue to campaign for these votes, the support for Stein highlights the importance of addressing these critical issues to gain the trust and votes of Muslim Americans.
