By John Q. Hosedrinker Anyone in the Arab American community who thinks that not voting for Biden to make a statement about Gaza is a good idea is simply deluding themselves. As much as I wish Biden had taken a stronger stance on Israel’s actions, the reality is that Trump would be a thousand times worse. This is not a situation where we have the luxury of sitting out an election or voting out of protest.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer hit the nail on the head when she said that not voting for Biden over the Gaza war would support a second Trump term. The idea that Trump would be better for Palestinians is not only naive but dangerous. Trump has made it clear where his allegiances lie with his decision to move the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. It’s not a stretch to imagine him escalating the situation even further if given a second term.
I understand the frustration and anger towards Biden’s lack of action when it comes to Israel, but the alternative is far worse. Trump’s blatant disregard for human rights and his unwavering support for Israel should be enough to make anyone think twice about not voting for Biden. The consequences of a second Trump term would be catastrophic for not only Palestinians but also for Arab Americans and any marginalized group in this country.
I’ve seen the argument that withholding a vote from Biden is a way to send a message, but the reality is that it’s a misguided tactic. Biden may not be perfect, but he is the only viable option to prevent further harm. The stakes are too high to play games with this election. We need to make the responsible choice for the sake of our country and for those who are most vulnerable.
At the end of the day, it’s about weighing the options and understanding the gravity of the situation. Not voting for Biden in protest may seem like a bold move, but it is one that could have dire consequences. We need to prioritize the well-being of all Americans, including those in Gaza, and that means making the tough but necessary decision to support Biden in the upcoming election. It’s a choice that may not be easy, but it’s the one that ultimately serves the greater good. The recent statements made by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer regarding the importance of voting for Biden over the Gaza war have sparked a crucial conversation about the upcoming election. It’s clear that many individuals are frustrated with Biden’s stance on Israel and Palestine, myself included. However, as much as we may wish for stronger action from him, the reality is that the alternative, a second term for Trump, would be catastrophic.
The notion that Trump would be more sympathetic or beneficial to Palestinians is dangerously misguided. Trump’s actions, such as moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem, clearly demonstrate where his priorities lie. The prospect of his re-election potentially escalating the conflict in Gaza is a terrifying thought. The harm that Trump could inflict on marginalized communities, including Arab Americans, is something that we cannot afford to overlook.
While the desire to send a message through withholding a vote from Biden may seem like a noble gesture, it ultimately misses the mark. The upcoming election is not one where we can afford to sit on the sidelines or make decisions based solely on protest. The consequences of a second Trump term would have far-reaching and devastating effects, both domestically and internationally.
It’s crucial that we weigh our options carefully and recognize the gravity of the situation at hand. Supporting Biden, despite his flaws, is the responsible choice to prevent further harm and protect vulnerable communities. This decision may not be easy, but it is necessary for the well-being of all Americans, including those affected by the conflict in Gaza.
In the end, it boils down to prioritizing the greater good over personal grievances. While criticism of Biden’s actions is valid, we must understand the urgency of the situation and make the choice that aligns with our values and the well-being of those most at risk. The upcoming election presents a critical opportunity to shape the future of our country and stand up for justice, and that begins with making the difficult but essential decision to support Biden.