Arab Americans in Detroit disillusioned with Trump post-election

Arab Americans in Detroit and its suburbs are feeling anger and betrayal toward former President Donald Trump after the recent violence in Gaza. Many in the community, who had shifted their support to Trump in the November elections, now feel abandoned and disillusioned. Residents like Mahbuba expressed deep sorrow and frustration. She compared the images of violence in Gaza to her own child’s age, feeling suffocated by the sorrow. This sentiment of abandonment is common among Arab Americans, who believe their concerns about Gaza are ignored by both major political parties. Despite these feelings, Trump gained significant support in majority Arab American areas during the election. For example, in Dearborn, traditionally a Democratic stronghold, Trump received more votes than Kamala Harris. This community has a long history in Michigan and is influential in local politics. However, the recent bombings in Gaza have put Trump’s foreign policy under scrutiny, even among his supporters. Some, like Faye Nemer, who leads a local business chamber, continue to support Trump domestically but are deeply troubled by his foreign policy decisions. As the conflict escalates, many Arab Americans feel pressure and backlash for their past support of Trump. Some, like Mo Baydoun, express general frustration with all sides, feeling that their voices are not heard as violence continues abroad. The tension is heightened by concerns over the treatment of Arab Americans in the U.S., especially after the detention of students and activists. Many young people in the community now feel afraid to speak out politically. Some who previously supported Trump have reconsidered their stance, indicating they might now choose to vote without solid allegiance to any party.