Arab-Americans, many of whom supported Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election, are expressing frustration and disappointment with his cabinet appointments.
The discontent arises from the pro-Israel stance of several key nominees, which many Arab-Americans believe contradicts Trump’s campaign promises to prioritize peace in the Middle East.
This sentiment is particularly strong in Arab-American communities in Michigan and other swing states, where their votes were instrumental in Trump’s electoral victory.
Pro-Israel Appointments
Youssef Chouhoud, an assistant professor of political science at Christopher Newport University, told TRT World: “Muslim or Arab-Americans should certainly not be pleased with any of the candidates that Trump has put forth for his cabinet.”
Among Trump’s controversial picks is former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee as Ambassador to Israel. Huckabee, a staunch supporter of Greater Israel, has previously denied the existence of Palestinians and rejected the concept of a two-state solution. His past remarks and policies have drawn sharp criticism from Arab-American leaders.
“Huckabee refuses to acknowledge the occupation of Palestinian territory and refers to the West Bank as ‘Judea and Samaria’—a biblical term used by Israeli settlers and extremists to justify their claims to the land,” Chouhoud added.
Another divisive appointment is Pete Hegseth, a former US Army veteran nominated for Secretary of Defense. Hegseth has faced backlash for his anti-Muslim rhetoric, including calls for the demolition of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and concerns over Muslim immigration and birth rates. Critics argue that his Christian nationalist views could pose significant challenges for Muslims both in the US and abroad.
Similarly, Marco Rubio, Trump’s choice for Secretary of State, has consistently supported Israel’s military actions in Gaza and opposed ceasefire proposals.
Elise Stefanik, selected to represent the US at the United Nations, has a record of opposing Palestinian aid funding and UN resolutions critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Community Concerns
Farah Khan, co-chair of the “Abandon Harris” movement in Michigan, voiced her concerns, telling TRT World that many of Trump’s cabinet picks “don’t look promising.”
For Arab-American voters, who hoped Trump’s presidency would offer a more balanced approach to Middle Eastern policy, these appointments have been a stark disappointment. The appointments are seen as a signal of continued alignment with hardline pro-Israel policies, leaving many feeling alienated and disillusioned.
