Biden's "Worst Nightmare" Played Out In Michigan

Written by: Clayton Keirns

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Time to read 1 min

In a decisive victory, President Joe Biden clinched Michigan's Democratic presidential primary, a result that surprised no one. However, the real story unfolded behind the scenes as a significant number of voters chose to express their dissatisfaction with Biden's handling of Israel by voting "uncommitted," signaling a deep-rooted discontent within the Democratic base.


The Michigan primary became a battleground not just for Biden but also served as a stark warning to the former President Donald Trump. The "uncommitted" campaign, aiming to sway Biden on his Israel policy, surpassed expectations, amassing over 33,000 votes in the Republican primary and a staggering 100,000 votes in the Democratic primary. This overwhelming response underscores a growing disillusionment with Biden's unwavering support for Israel, particularly among Michigan's substantial Arab-American population, young voters, and progressives disenchanted by the ongoing war in Gaza.

Michigan, with its significant Arab-American community, was the epicenter of the "Listen to Michigan" campaign, spearheaded by influential figures such as Layla Elabed, sister of Michigan Rep. Rashida Tlaib, and former Tlaib staffer Abbas Alawieh. Their call for a "lasting ceasefire" and an end to U.S. military aid to Israel resonated deeply, marking a critical juncture for Biden's presidency.


Notably, Rep. Tlaib, the only Palestinian-American in Congress, played a pivotal role in galvanizing support for the campaign, illustrating the profound discontent within her district and beyond. The campaign's success is a testament to the power of grassroots movements and the urgent need for a reevaluation of U.S. foreign policy, especially concerning Israel and Gaza.


The results from Michigan send a clear message to Biden: the Democratic coalition that secured his victory in 2020 is fracturing over his foreign policy stance. As progressives and key members of the House, like Rep. Pramila Jayapal, voice their concerns, it's evident that Biden's approach to the Gaza conflict is alienating vital segments of his base. This internal strife poses a significant threat to his 2024 reelection bid, especially as polls suggest a potential loss to Trump in a crucial swing state like Michigan.


The "uncommitted" vote in Michigan is a stark reminder of the growing demands for a more balanced and humane foreign policy. It challenges Biden to reconsider his stance on Israel and Gaza, not just as a matter of electoral strategy, but as a moral imperative. As the Democratic Party grapples with these internal tensions, the outcome of this primary may very well shape the future of U.S. foreign policy and the political landscape leading up to the 2024 presidential election.