The Metro: The shifting political future of Arab Americans in Michigan

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Arab Americans have long been an integral part of the cultural and political fabric of metro Detroit, contributing to the region’s identity and shaping local elections.

From Dearborn to the heart of Detroit, the Arab American community has influenced Michigan’s growth and political dynamics. However, as the political landscape evolves, a key question arises: Is there a solid political home for Arab Americans? And if so, where do they fit in today’s polarized environment?

For decades, Arab Americans have been a reliable voting bloc for the Democratic Party, especially in areas like Dearborn. However, in recent years, many have begun to question their loyalty to the Democrats. The catalyst for this shift has been growing dissatisfaction with the party’s stance on key issues, particularly its support of Israel’s actions in Gaza. This evolving political identity is creating uncertainty about the future of Arab American influence in Michigan’s elections.

Today on The Metro, we explored the political future of Arab Americans in Michigan and across the country. Are they finding common ground with the Republican Party, or do their political views span beyond the traditional party lines? The shifts in the community’s political engagement could significantly affect Michigan’s elections in the coming years.

As national and local elections approach, the political leanings of Arab Americans will play a crucial role in shaping Michigan’s political future. Their evolving political identity is fluid, shaped by a range of factors, but one thing is clear: their impact on the state’s political landscape will only grow stronger.

Guests:

• Hassan Nehme:  Organizer for Michigan’s Republican Party.
• James Zogby: President and co-founder of the Arab American Institute. Longtime leader of the Democratic Party 

Use the media player above to hear the full conversation.

More headlines from The Metro on March 20, 2025 : 

• Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s decision to file criminal charges against 11 pro-Palestinian demonstrators on University of Michigan’s campus has angered some of her supporters, with critics calling it an infringement on free speech. Amir Makled, one of the attorneys representing the demonstrators pro bono, joined the show to share the latest developments in the case.

• Many American Jews feel deeply uncomfortable criticizing Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. American Jewish author and liberal journalist Peter Beinart says that’s because Jewish identity is tied to uncritical support of Israel. He hopes to change that in his new book, “Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza.” Beinart spoke with WDET All Things Considered Host and reporter Russ McNamara about this and more.

• Detroit author Donald Goines penned 16 books before being mysteriously killed alongside his wife in their Highland Park apartment, and their murders remain unsolved. Now, a new documentary is exploring Goines’ life, death and cultural impact. Executive Producer Craig Gore, and King Tape Productions Founder Robert “Tape” Bailey both joined the show to talk about the film’s progress and Goines’ impact on their work.

• The Detroit Tigers Opening Day is on Friday, April 4, but the team has been getting ready at their spring training home in Lakeland, Florida. The Tigers have an 89-year history with the Florida city — the longest of any team in Major League Baseball. To discuss this long standing connection, Florida history professor James Michael Denham joined the show.

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on-demand.