With the clock ticking down to the pivotal 2024 U.S. presidential election, candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have zeroed in on one of the most contentious topics shaping the current political discourse: the Gaza conflict. Their contrasting stances reveal much about their broader campaigns, as they vie for the support of voters who are disillusioned by the continuing violence and humanitarian crisis.
During her final rally at Michigan State University, Kamala Harris made it clear she intends to take action if elected. "This year has been difficult, with the scale of death and destruction in Gaza and the civilian casualties and displacement in Lebanon. It is devastating," she told the crowd. "If I'm elected president, I will do everything in my power to end the war in Gaza, bring home the hostages, and work toward ensuring the security of Israel, alongside the dignity, freedom, and self-determination for the Palestinian people." Her comments were met with loud cheers from thousands gathered to hear her speak.
Harris’s rally marked not only her commitment to Palestinian rights but also her hope to galvanize the Arab-American community, which comprises roughly 200,000 voters in Michigan. While her administration, alongside President Biden, has faced criticism from pro-Palestinian activists for its steadfast support of Israel during the recent conflict, Harris is seeking to navigate a delicate balance by expressing compassion for those affected. "This year has been difficult, and as president, my team will work tirelessly to bring about peace," she maintained, urging attendees to channel their concerns by voting for her.
On the other side of the campaign trail, former President Donald Trump is also leaning heavily on his notions of peace, albeit through different rhetoric. Speaking to supporters at events across key battleground states like Pennsylvania and North Carolina, he characterized himself as the peace bringer to the Middle East. He stirred the crowds with statements like, "You’re going to have peace in the Middle East, but not with these clowns running the U.S. right now!" His fiery words seem to resonate with critics of the current administration's approach.
Trump's outreach has extended to Arab-Americans, with endorsements from local leaders and even visits to Arab-majority areas like Dearborn, Michigan. During these politically charged moments, he made controversial remarks related to journalists, joking about the possibility of them facing violence. While walking this contentious line of humor, his statements ignited backlash but simultaneously reinforced his appeal to disenchanted voters, positioning himself as the candidate who understands their grievances.
Notably, the political climate surrounding the Gaza conflict is equally charged for both candidates, indicated by the increasing prevalence of activist groups urging their supporters to reconsider their voting choices. While pro-Palestinian activists have expressed disappointment with Harris—calling for her to be rejected due to her views—some are now advocating voting for her to stave off Trump’s starkly pro-Israel policy. Notably, Georgia State Rep. Ruwa Romman wrote, "Vote for Vice President Harris not because she embodies all of our ideals but because there is a chance, even slim, we can push her toward policies we favor. A second Trump presidency would spell disaster for our community and allied communities."
Despite the notable differences between Harris and Trump, both candidates share the goal of attracting undecided voters as the election quickly approaches. With early voting already surpassing 77 million nationwide, every speech made, and every rally held could hold significant weight. While Harris emphasizes unity and compassion, asserting she will lead with dignity and resolve, Trump rallies against leaders he deems responsible for the unrest, promising unwavering support for Israel.
Specifically, Harris addressed the concerns of Michigan’s Arab-American population when she articulated her plan to gather community leaders and listen to their concerns. Activities such as protests on college campuses—including Michigan State—have forced both candidates to reckon with how their rhetoric and policies will affect young voters who are increasingly attuned to issues of international justice and human rights.
Meanwhile, Trump aims to leverage dissatisfaction with the Biden-Harris administration’s efforts, attempting to sway voters distressed by the war and perceived negligence toward Palestinian rights. His recent comments, calling Democrats “demonic” and asserting drastic measures must be taken to avert domestic chaos, reflect an aggressive campaign strategy as he seeks to rally his base.
While pro-Israel sentiments typically dominate Republican platforms, Trump’s approach could indicate shifting dynamics, particularly as dissent against the current administration becomes more vocal. His push for Arab-American support can be seen as part of broader Republican efforts to brand the party as inclusive, contrasting starkly with frequent Democratic platforms.
At the same time, Harris’s rhetoric suggests she aims to bridge these divides within her party, emphasizing effective engagement with both pro-Palestinian advocates alongside pro-Israel supporters. This task isn’t simple, but she’s framing it as integral to her campaign's ethos. "We have the momentum because our campaign taps deeply—into hopes and dreams—to resonate with all Americans," she said during her rally, projecting optimism as Election Day approaches.
Last-minute campaigning is heating up, with both candidates emphasizing the urgency of the moment. Harris will make additional stops across Pennsylvania—targeting strongholds like Pittsburgh—while Trump heads for Michigan’s most significant cities. This dual pursuit mirrors the intense focus each candidate places on winning over voters whose sentiments straddle the line between strongly opinionated and undecided.
With history on the line, the discontent over the Gaza war and its ramifications on American life shape this electoral moment as nothing less than pivotal. The national response to how Harris and Trump navigate these sensitive issues will undoubtedly resonate through their campaigns and even influence their potential administrations. The focus on Gaza is not just about foreign policy but rather about how it interweaves domestic sentiments of justice, community welfare, and national identity.
Harris's assertion of “doing everything” she can to end the violence bodes well for her, but it also raises questions on whether her promises will materialize if elected. Meanwhile, Trump’s assertive claims and connections to certain communities could shift the traditional voting patterns observed historically. Amidst blame, hope, and the quest for actionable change, the looming Election Day offers both candidates their final chance to sway the hearts and minds of millions.
With polls closing soon, some voters may find themselves grappling with complex decisions. Opinions are deeply divided; and at the heart of the matter lies the somber reality of what’s happening abroad and how it’s influencing the election back home.
