Jill Stein Seeks Palestinian Americans as Potential Running Mates
ICARO Media Group
Several potential candidates have confirmed that they have engaged in multiple conversations with Stein about the vice-presidential position.
One of the prominent figures approached by Stein's team is Noura Erakat, a well-known human rights lawyer and Rutgers University professor. Erakat shared on X that Stein's team had approached her to run as her vice-presidential candidate, adding that she is seriously considering the offer. Erakat emphasized the importance of highlighting the impact of supporting a #genocide on democracy, in contrast to other campaigns.
Abed Ayoub, the national executive director of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee based in Washington D.C., also revealed that he has been considered for the position. Calling it an "honor," Ayoub commended Stein's consistent stance on Gaza, Palestine, and human rights throughout her campaign. He believes that being considered for the vice-presidential position is a testament to Stein's integrity and commitment to justice.
According to NBC, another candidate interviewed for the role is Abdullah Hammoud, the Democratic mayor of Dearborn, Michigan. However, it was later discovered that Hammoud, at 34 years old, is too young to be eligible for the position of vice-president, as required by the US Constitution.
Political activist and comedian Amer Zahr also disclosed his conversations with Stein regarding the position. Expressing his gratitude for being considered, Zahr highlighted that Stein's direct outreach to Palestinian Americans and Arab Americans, particularly in Michigan, demonstrated her seriousness in addressing core issues within her campaign. Zahr's comments came in the wake of criticism directed at Senator Kamala Harris earlier this week over her response to anti-war demonstrators at a rally in Detroit, Michigan.
Harris, who does not support an arms embargo on Israel, faced backlash when she raised her eyebrows and retorted, "You know what? If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that. Otherwise, I'm speaking," in response to the demonstrators chanting "Kamala, Kamala, you can't hide, we won't vote for genocide." Zahr criticized Harris for her disrespectful response, suggesting that she missed an opportunity to address the concerns of the demonstrators and offer a proactive solution.
Stein is expected to announce her running mate next Friday, and her outreach to Palestinian Americans reflects her commitment to bringing diverse voices and perspectives into her campaign. As the presidential race heats up, the inclusion of Palestinian Americans on the ticket adds an intriguing element to the political landscape, highlighting the importance of representation and engagement on critical issues such as human rights and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.