Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Democratic Party running mate to Vice President Kamala Harris, has assured Muslim Americans of a role in a potential Harris administration.

In a bid to address concerns over U.S. policy in the Middle East, Walz made this commitment to Muslim inclusion during an online event organized by Emgage Action, a group that has endorsed Harris, and his comments were aimed at voters currently feeling disenfranchised by the current U.S. stance in the Israeli-Gaza conflict, as Breitbart reports.

Walz emphasized that a Harris administration would combat anti-Islamic and anti-Arab sentiments, signaling a broader effort to include Muslim Americans in U.S. governance.

In his address, Walz opened with the Arabic greeting, “As-Salaam-Alaikum,” and expressed empathy for those impacted by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He acknowledged the devastation caused by the war, stating that “the scale of death and destruction in Gaza is staggering and devastating.” Walz also emphasized the need for an immediate end to the violence, aligning his message with the Democratic Party’s push for a ceasefire.

Addressing Muslim Concerns About U.S. Policy

Walz’s comments come amid growing frustration among Muslim and Arab voters regarding the Biden administration’s firm support of Israel during the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Many in these communities feel alienated by what they perceive as one-sided U.S. foreign policy. As a result, some have turned toward former President Donald Trump, who, despite his previous anti-Islamic rhetoric, has seen a rise in support among Muslim Americans compared to four years ago.

To address these concerns, Walz made a pointed commitment. “Vice President Harris and I are committed that this White House… will continue to condemn in all forms anti-Islam, anti-Arab sentiments being led by Donald Trump, but more importantly, a commitment that Muslims will be engaged in this administration and serve side by side,” Walz stated during the virtual meeting.

Emgage Action Endorses Harris

Emgage Action, the group hosting the event, has thrown its support behind Kamala Harris. The organization has been vocal in its advocacy for Muslim Americans and has long pushed for greater inclusion of their community in national politics. Their endorsement of Harris represents an effort to bridge the gap between disillusioned Muslim voters and the Democratic Party.

Walz’s remarks also coincided with the launch of Arab Americans for Harris-Walz, further signaling the campaign’s outreach to Muslim and Arab communities. By pledging to engage Muslim Americans in policy-making, Walz aimed to appeal directly to a voter base that has grown increasingly skeptical of U.S. actions in the Middle East.

Increasing Support For Trump Among Muslims

Recent polling data shows a shift in Muslim-American support toward Donald Trump, with more voters in this demographic backing him compared to the 2020 election. This trend has surprised some political analysts, given Trump’s history of controversial statements about Islam. Nevertheless, the Biden administration’s perceived bias in the Israeli-Gaza conflict has alienated many Muslim and Arab voters, opening the door for Trump’s rise in popularity among them.

Walz’s outreach represents a critical effort to counteract this trend. By emphasizing the Harris administration’s commitment to fighting discrimination and ensuring Muslim representation, Walz hopes to win back voters who feel disconnected from the current political landscape.

Harris Maintains Support For Israel

Despite this outreach to Muslim voters, Vice President Harris has maintained something of a pro-Israel stance throughout the conflict. While advocating for a ceasefire, Harris has reiterated her support for Israel’s right to defend itself. This delicate balancing act has been a key feature of the Democratic Party’s approach to the ongoing crisis, with Harris attempting to navigate the demands of different voter groups.

Walz acknowledged this balancing act, expressing sympathy for those impacted by the violence while also supporting the call for an immediate ceasefire. “We all know on here, this war must end and it must end now,” Walz said, highlighting the urgency of resolving the conflict for the sake of civilians caught in the crossfire.

Appeal To Muslim Voters

Walz’s outreach to Muslim voters is part of a broader effort by the Harris campaign to build what they say is a more inclusive administration. By focusing on the need to combat anti-Islamic and anti-Arab sentiments, Walz positioned the Harris-Walz ticket as an alternative to the divisive rhetoric that marked Trump’s presidency. He underscored the administration’s dedication to ensuring that Muslim Americans have a voice in future policy decisions.

The message was clear: the Harris administration would actively include Muslim Americans in governance, standing against the exclusionary policies of the past. “Muslims will be engaged in this administration and serve side by side,” Walz reiterated.

Conclusion: A Commitment To Inclusivity

In conclusion, Gov. Tim Walz’s pledge to include Muslim Americans in a Harris administration highlights the Democrats’ efforts to reach out to a critical voter base.

By addressing concerns over U.S. policy in the Israeli-Gaza conflict and promising to combat anti-Islamic sentiments, Walz positioned the Harris-Walz ticket as a more inclusive option.

As Emgage Action and Arab Americans for Harris-Walz launch their campaigns, the Democrats hope to win back support from Muslim voters who have shifted toward Donald Trump.

The Harris campaign’s delicate balancing act between supporting Israel and advocating for peace underscores the complexity of the current political landscape.