In an unprecedented move, disenchanted Democrats in Michigan are aiming to send a strong message to President Joe Biden over his handling of the conflict in Gaza. Ahead of Tuesday's primary, a growing "uncommitted" movement is urging voters to check the box as a protest against Biden's failure to secure a lasting cease-fire in the region.

Organizers behind the movement hope that a significant showing of "uncommitted" votes will compel Biden to use his influence to rein in the Israeli military. While not expected to threaten Biden's victory, a substantial "uncommitted" vote would highlight the strain within the Democratic coalition in Michigan, a crucial swing state for the president.

The "uncommitted" campaign has prompted a dual approach to campaigning in the state, with Biden's team employing traditional methods such as high-profile visits and canvassing, while grassroots efforts from the "uncommitted" forces work to tap into the growing discontent over the Gaza conflict.

With the aim of reaching a wide audience, groups like Listen to Michigan have conducted phone banks in multiple languages to engage voters. In Kalamazoo, students gathered to march to the polls and cast their "uncommitted" votes, signaling a vocal opposition to Biden's stance on the conflict.

A key aspect of the "uncommitted" movement is its potential delegate impact at the national convention in August, where delegates not pledged to Biden could advocate for policy changes or support an alternative candidate. The movement is eyeing a target of 10,000 votes, a number comparable to Donald Trump's victory margin in Michigan in 2016.

Despite warnings from Democratic leaders like Governor Gretchen Whitmer about the risks of fracturing the party, the "uncommitted" campaign reflects the mounting frustration among Michigan Democrats over Biden's support for Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Notably, even senior administration officials meeting with Arab American and Muslim American leaders in Michigan faced criticism, emphasizing the deep divisions within the party on the issue.

As the primary looms, Biden's challenge with progressives continues to draw attention, with efforts like Rep. Ro Khanna engaging with critics to convey the origins of Biden's stance. The growing "uncommitted" movement underscores the need for Biden to address the concerns of Michigan Democrats as the party strives to maintain unity heading into the general election.