Vice President Kamala Harris has received the endorsement of Emgage Action, a prominent Muslim American voter mobilization group, in a significant development for her campaign. Emgage Action, the political arm of an 18-year-old Muslim American advocacy group, announced its endorsement of Harris' presidential bid, emphasizing the importance of defeating Donald Trump in the upcoming election.
The group, based in Washington D.C. and operating in eight states with a strong presence in battleground states like Michigan and Pennsylvania, will now focus its voter-outreach efforts on supporting Harris and down-ballot candidates. Emgage Action clarified that while they do not align with all of Harris' policies, they view the endorsement as a pragmatic decision to guide voters in the face of a challenging electoral choice.
The endorsement comes after months of tension between Arab American and Muslim groups and Democratic leaders over the handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Many groups, including those associated with the 'Uncommitted' movement protesting the war, have opted not to endorse any candidate in the presidential race.
The conflict in the Middle East has intensified following recent attacks, with casualties on both sides. Emgage Action's decision to support Harris was described as a result of extensive discussions and outreach with Harris' team, with the group finding alignment on domestic policies and expressing hope for her approach to the Middle East conflict if elected.
Emgage Action endorsed Harris as a means to prevent a resurgence of Islamophobic policies under a potential Trump administration, citing concerns over issues like the 'Muslim ban.' Harris' campaign manager acknowledged the endorsement as a significant gesture during a challenging time for Muslim and Arab American communities.
Harris' campaign reiterated its commitment to addressing the conflict in Gaza and working towards a resolution that ensures security for Israel, releases hostages, ends Palestinian suffering, and upholds the rights of the Palestinian people to freedom, dignity, security, and self-determination.
