Assad Turfe, a prominent Arab American leader, delivered a passionate speech at a joint rally for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Turfe, who is of Lebanese descent and serves as the deputy executive of Wayne County, expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon.
Turfe condemned former President Donald Trump for his derogatory remarks towards Muslims and Arab Americans during his term in office. He specifically highlighted Trump's controversial travel ban targeting seven Muslim-majority countries, which faced significant backlash and legal challenges.
Warning of the potential reinstatement and expansion of the travel ban if Trump were to return to power, Turfe emphasized the importance of electing leaders who understand and advocate for marginalized communities.
Trump's recent efforts to court Arab American and Muslim voters in Michigan were noted, with the former president bringing Muslim leaders on stage at a campaign rally. Trump's criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza, coupled with his accusations of insufficient support from the Biden administration, have stirred debate within these communities.
Despite Trump's attempts to sway Arab American and Muslim voters, Turfe made a strong endorsement of Kamala Harris as a leader who can address the concerns and aspirations of these communities. Turfe's call for an end to the suffering in Gaza and Lebanon resonated with the audience, underscoring the urgency of finding a resolution to the conflict.
In response to Trump's rhetoric and policies, Turfe's impassioned plea for empathy and understanding from political leaders reflects a broader sentiment within the Arab American and Muslim communities. As the election approaches, the voices of these communities are poised to influence the political landscape and shape the discourse on critical issues such as the conflict in Gaza.
