In an effort to sway Arab American voters who are dissatisfied with President Joe Biden's stance on Israel, allies of Donald Trump are making strategic moves. Massad Boulos, a Lebanese-born businessman with ties to the Arab American community, is spearheading this initiative. Boulos, known for his son's marriage to Tiffany Trump, has been engaging with Arab American leaders in Michigan, a state with a significant Arab American Democratic population.
Despite the potential political opportunity for Trump, challenges remain. Many Arab Americans still harbor resentment towards Trump for his immigration ban on several Muslim-majority countries and other controversial statements. Trump has also criticized Biden for not being sufficiently supportive of Israel.
Boulos, who previously had a minor role in Arab American outreach before the 2020 election, has ramped up his involvement this year. Teaming up with 'Arab Americans for Trump' groups in Arizona and Michigan, Boulos is striving to capitalize on divisions within the Democratic base.
Recent meetings in Michigan involving Boulos, his son Michael, and key Trump adviser Richard Grenell have drawn attention. However, some Arab American activists remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these efforts, citing a lack of substantial benefits for the community.
Michigan's Arab American population, exceeding 310,000 residents, holds significant electoral sway. In the 2020 election, Biden secured the state for Democrats after Trump's narrow victory in 2016. With Michigan's pivotal role in presidential elections, both parties are intensifying their focus on the Arab American vote.
Boulos' connection to Trump as a 'family friend' has raised eyebrows, given Trump's history of appointing relatives to key political roles. While Boulos emphasizes his personal efforts to reconnect with friends in the Arab American community, some remain unconvinced, stressing the importance of concrete policy discussions.
As the political landscape evolves, the Arab American vote in Michigan continues to be a crucial factor, with both Trump allies and Biden supporters vying for support in a community that remains divided on key issues.
