Arab American support for President Joe Biden has hit an all-time low, with only 17 percent expressing approval, according to a recent survey conducted by the Arab American Institute (AAI) think tank.
The study, published on Tuesday, reveals a dramatic 42-percent drop in support among Arab American communities since President Biden’s election in 2020. The decline in approval is attributed to President Biden’s continued support for the Israeli offensive in Gaza, which has raised concerns among Arab American voters. This article explores the survey findings, the factors driving the decline in support, and the potential implications for President Biden’s reelection bid.
Survey Highlights
The AAI’s survey of 500 Arab American respondents conducted last week paints a striking picture of the declining support for President Biden. Only 17 percent of Arab Americans surveyed expressed approval of the president, while a staggering 83 percent held a negative view of his administration. These numbers represent a significant decline in support, with President Biden’s approval rating dropping by 18 percent since April.
James Zogby, the president of AAI, described the survey findings as “dramatic.” He emphasized that the level of dissatisfaction with President Biden is notably high, surpassing the dissatisfaction typically seen for a Democratic candidate for president.
President Biden’s Stance on Gaza Conflict
The decline in Arab American support for President Biden is closely tied to his unwavering support for Israel during its military operation in Gaza, which has resulted in the deaths of over 8,500 Palestinians since October 7. While President Biden has reaffirmed his commitment to “rock-solid and unwavering support” for Israel, his stance has raised concerns among Arab American communities.
Potential Impact on the 2024 Election
Although the United States’ presidential election is still over a year away, many Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim American advocates have already pledged not to support President Biden due to his position on the Gaza conflict. This growing anger towards the president, as highlighted by Suehaila Amen, an Arab American activist in Michigan, could potentially have repercussions at the ballot box in 2024. The dissatisfaction and outrage within Arab American communities may influence their voting decisions in the upcoming election.
US Support for Israel and the Gaza Conflict
The United States has historically been a strong supporter of Israel, providing over $3.8 billion in military funding annually. President Biden’s decision to further assist Israel during the Gaza conflict, including the supply of ammunition and other weapons, has intensified criticism from Arab American voters.
Additionally, the Biden administration’s handling of the Gaza conflict has been seen as alienating Arab American voters. Some critics argue that the administration has failed to acknowledge or address the Palestinian perspective, leading to frustration and discontent among Arab Americans.
Public Opinion and Gaza Conflict
The AAI survey findings are consistent with other public opinion polls conducted since the start of the Gaza conflict. A significant majority, 66 percent of respondents, believe that the United States should advocate for a ceasefire in the region. This includes 80 percent of Democrats, 57 percent of independents, and 56 percent of Republicans. These numbers reflect a widespread desire for peace and a resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Impact on President Biden’s Approval Ratings
Last week, a Gallup poll indicated an 11 percent drop in President Biden’s approval rating among voters from his own Democratic Party. While his approval rating among Democrats was at 86 percent in September, it dropped to 75 percent in the latest poll. President Biden’s overall job approval rating was recorded at 37 percent, suggesting that the Gaza conflict and his stance on it have contributed to the decline in his popularity.
Implications for the Future
Analysts have warned that President Biden’s unwavering support for Israel could potentially alienate progressive and young voters, impacting his chances of reelection in 2024. Arab Americans, who have expressed a deep concern for Palestinian rights, remain a significant voting bloc. As James Zogby emphasized, Palestine remains a critical issue for Arab Americans, and the Biden administration’s response to this matter is a significant factor in their evaluation of the president.
Conclusion
The sharp decline in Arab American support for President Biden underscores the complex relationship between US foreign policy and domestic politics. President Biden’s stance on the Gaza conflict and his commitment to supporting Israel have triggered dissatisfaction and disappointment among Arab American communities. As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the president faces the challenge of reconciling these concerns and regaining the trust and support of Arab American voters. The survey results signal the need for a nuanced approach to foreign policy and international conflicts, taking into account the diverse perspectives of American citizens.
