In Michigan, grassroots organizations like Abandon Biden and Listen to Michigan are urging Democrats to vote “uncommitted” in the state’s primary as a form of protest against President Joe Biden’s handling of the Israel-Gaza conflict. With the largest Arab-American population in the US residing in Michigan, this primary election will serve as a crucial test to measure the impact of the Biden administration’s policies on Democrats in the state. Dissatisfaction among the Arab-American community over Biden’s support for Israel in the conflict has been simmering for months and is now being reflected in their voting choices.
While President Biden is expected to win this primary election, the number of votes for “uncommitted” will indicate the extent of electoral damage caused by his stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict. Recent opinion polls have shown disapproval among Democrats regarding the president’s handling of the crisis, especially in areas like Dearborn with a significant Arab-American population. The primary election will serve as a litmus test for Biden’s popularity among these communities and could have broader implications for his re-election bid in November, particularly in swing states like Michigan. Despite assurances from the Biden campaign and attempts to address concerns, many voters remain unconvinced and are willing to show their discontent through their votes.