Trump courts Muslim voters in Michigan as Kamala Harris rallies support from Democrats

US former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are vying for the crucial support of Muslim voters and union workers in the battleground state.

With Election Day approaching on November 5 and early voting already underway, both candidates are strategically addressing concerns over Israel's military actions in Gaza and the future of the US auto industry, which is vital to Michigan’s economy, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

At a rally held outside Detroit on October 26, Trump claimed to have met with local imams and urged the Muslim community to back him in the upcoming election. "That's all they want," Trump said, emphasizing his commitment to ending conflicts and fostering peace in the Middle East. He also reassured auto workers that he would work to reverse the economic decline affecting the Detroit area and the nation as a whole.

While Trump has publicly expressed unwavering support for Israel, he has yet to articulate a concrete plan to address the ongoing conflict. Nevertheless, his appeal seems to resonate with some Muslim Americans disillusioned by President Joe Biden and Harris' support for Israel. Imam Belal Alzuhairi of the Islamic Center of Detroit joined Trump on stage, stating, "We ask Muslims to stand with President Trump because he promises peace."

Meanwhile, at a separate rally, Michelle Obama passionately advocated for Harris, highlighting the Democratic campaign’s efforts to engage with diverse communities, including the Arab American and Muslim populations in Michigan. This demographic is increasingly concerned about the ramifications of the Israel-Gaza conflict and how electric vehicle initiatives might impact the traditional auto industry.

With approximately 8.4 million registered voters and 15 electoral college votes at stake, Michigan is one of seven key states that could determine the outcome of the election. It remains a pivotal part of the "Blue Wall," which Democrats view as their best opportunity to secure a victory for Harris, alongside Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

By Khagan Isayev