The movement urging President Joe Biden to reconsider his Israel policy has reached Minnesota, where activists aim to mobilize progressive Democrats and Muslim Americans for a significant protest vote on Super Tuesday.
Though Minnesota traditionally favors Democrats, the symbolic impact of an uncommitted vote is noteworthy, echoing the recent surge in Michigan. Minnesota’s role in this protest is seen as a litmus test for Biden’s standing within his party.
Jaylani Hussein, co-chair of Minnesota’s Abandon Biden movement, estimates the state’s sizable Muslim population of about 250,000 could influence the vote. The movement seeks at least 10,000 votes against Biden’s policy, primarily calling for a permanent ceasefire and halting aid to Israel.
Organizers, however, acknowledge the challenge of replicating Michigan’s success, lacking the same groundwork. Despite this, the momentum behind the movement reflects growing discontent with Biden’s stance on Israel, especially within key segments of his support base.
While Biden’s solid support in Michigan signals some resilience, the pressure to reconsider his policy is palpable. Vice President Kamala Harris‘s recent call for an immediate ceasefire highlights the shifting dynamics and the administration’s responsiveness to public sentiment.
The broader Democratic Party remains divided on the issue, with polling indicating mixed views on military aid to Israel. Yet, party officials like Ken Martin of Minnesota’s Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party remain confident in Biden’s candidacy, emphasizing the importance of rallying behind the incumbent.
Despite the protest vote, Biden is poised to secure victories in Minnesota and other Super Tuesday states, positioning himself as the Democratic frontrunner for the upcoming election.
The Minnesota vote reflects broader questions about Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict and his overall appeal to diverse constituencies within the Democratic Party. While challenges persist, Biden’s candidacy continues to be framed as the pragmatic alternative to a potential Trump re-election.
