Staff Reports
A potential obstacle has materialized for President Joe Biden's reelection campaign in 2024, as a recent poll indicates a decline in support from Arab American voters. The poll, which was carried out by John Zogby Strategies and the Arab American Institute, revealed a substantial decline in support for Biden since 2020, as his approval rating dropped from 59% to 17%. Conversely, former President Donald Trump's support among Arab American voters increased by five percentage points, to forty percent.
Arab American support for Biden drops dramatically in new poll
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The decrease in support is especially disconcerting for Biden, given the significant influence of the Arab American voting cohort in crucial battleground states such as Ohio, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. Attaining support from this demographic is pivotal for Biden to ensure a re-election in 2020. Nonetheless, two-thirds of Arab Americans hold a negative opinion of Biden's management of the Israel-Hamas conflict, according to the survey, which further compounds the president's predicament.
The poll results illustrate the intricate equilibrium that Biden must maintain while navigating the Middle East conflict. Although endorsing Israel's prerogative to defend itself against Hamas assaults, he has concurrently advocated for the safeguarding of Gaza Strip civilians. Progressive members of his own political party have criticized this nuanced approach, urging him to advocate for a ceasefire between the two factions.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, in response to a query regarding Biden's support among Arab and Muslim Americans, cited the escalating discrimination experienced by these communities. Although this may be a legitimate concern, it provides little insight into the decline in presidential support. In order to ensure his re-election, Biden must devise a strategy to restore the confidence and trust of voting Arab Americans.
In addition, an increase in anti-Arab bigotry was revealed in the survey results, with 59% of respondents reporting discrimination and 78% expressing concern regarding it. These results underscore the necessity for increased endeavors to tackle these concerns and guarantee equitable treatment for every American.
