Although the Muslim community is relatively small, it could play a pivotal role in key battleground states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Georgia in the upcoming presidential election, according to Dr. Elad Ben David, an expert on Islam in the United States who serves as a research fellow at the Forum for Regional Thinking.
For the first time, the political influence of American Muslims appears poised to significantly impact candidates. This shift has developed over the past few decades, particularly after 9/11, as many in the Muslim community became more engaged in social and political activism to enhance their image and national identity, which had been adversely affected by the attacks. This activism has led to milestones, including the election of the first Muslim congressman, Keith Ellison, in 2006.
Historically, American Muslim activism on behalf of Palestinians has intensified following Israeli military actions in Gaza. However, Hamas's attack on October 7, 2023, has propelled this activism to unprecedented levels, fueling a surge in anti-Zionist discourse among prominent American Muslims. Criticism directed at the Biden administration for its support of Israel has also escalated, exemplified by the largest pro-Palestinian protest in U.S. history, which drew 400,000 participants in Washington, D.C.
Despite making up the third-largest religious group in America after Jews and Christians, Muslims hold considerable potential to sway elections in swing states. Discontent with the Democratic Party has been evident, especially during Biden's presidential campaign, and some believe that Kamala Harris’s elevation could slightly improve relations. However, both Biden and Harris are viewed as supportive of Israel, which has frustrated many in the Muslim and Arab communities, particularly due to the lack of Palestinian representation at the Democratic National Convention.
The diversity within the American Muslim community—spanning 75 countries—presents challenges in uniting as a cohesive voting bloc. For example, while many African American Muslims prioritize domestic issues like combating Islamophobia and racism, Arab Americans, particularly those of Palestinian descent, focus primarily on the situation in Gaza.
Traditionally, the Democratic Party has been seen as a natural ally for Muslims, especially post-9/11. However, following the war in Gaza, some community members advocate for punishing the Democrats through their votes, possibly by supporting the Green Party, led by Jill Stein, as a means of expressing dissatisfaction.
As the U.S. becomes increasingly diverse, the growing political power of the Muslim community may have significant implications for U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Israel and its relationship with the Jewish community, especially in the aftermath of the events of October 7.
