DiscoverThe NPR Politics PodcastCan Harris Win Over "Uncommitted" Voters Worried About Gaza?
Can Harris Win Over "Uncommitted" Voters Worried About Gaza?

Can Harris Win Over "Uncommitted" Voters Worried About Gaza?

Update: 2024-08-145
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Digest

This podcast delves into the "Uncommitted Movement," a group of Arab American and Muslim voters who are dissatisfied with President Biden's handling of the Gaza conflict. The movement aims to send a message to Biden that a ceasefire in Gaza is imperative and that arms transfers to Israel need to stop. They see Vice President Harris as a potential replacement for Biden, hoping she will be more responsive to their concerns regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The podcast also examines the perspectives of uncommitted voters in the general election, highlighting their concerns about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Supreme Court, and reproductive rights. The upcoming Democratic National Convention in Chicago, a city with a large Palestinian American population, is discussed, emphasizing the potential for protests and disruptions related to the Gaza conflict. The podcast highlights the deep divisions within the Democratic Party on this issue and the challenges faced by the Harris campaign in engaging with the Uncommitted Movement.

Outlines

00:00:35
The Uncommitted Movement and Vice President Harris

This chapter explores the "Uncommitted Movement," a group of Arab American and Muslim voters who protested against President Biden's handling of the Gaza conflict. The chapter examines how the movement views Vice President Harris as a potential replacement for Biden and how Harris's campaign is attempting to engage with this group.

00:08:29
Uncommitted Voters and the General Election

This chapter delves into the perspectives of uncommitted voters in the general election. While some express support for Harris, others remain hesitant due to concerns about her stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The chapter also highlights the broader political context, including the Supreme Court and reproductive rights, which are influencing voter decisions.

00:12:17
The Democratic Convention and the Gaza Conflict

This chapter discusses the upcoming Democratic National Convention in Chicago, a city with a large Palestinian American population. The chapter emphasizes the potential for protests and disruptions related to the ongoing Gaza conflict, highlighting the deep divisions within the Democratic Party on this issue.

Keywords

Uncommitted Movement


A political movement that emerged in the United States during the 2020 presidential primary, primarily composed of Arab American and Muslim voters. The movement aimed to send a message to President Biden regarding his handling of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly the Gaza conflict.

Gaza Conflict


An ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian groups in the Gaza Strip. The conflict has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement, and has been a source of international tension and debate.

Kamala Harris


The current Vice President of the United States. Harris is a prominent figure in the Democratic Party and is considered a potential candidate for the presidency in 2024.

Democratic National Convention


A quadrennial event held by the Democratic Party to formally nominate its presidential and vice-presidential candidates. The convention is a major political event that attracts significant media attention and public interest.

Arab American


An American citizen of Arab descent. Arab Americans are a diverse group with a rich history and culture, and they play an important role in American society.

Muslim American


An American citizen who identifies as Muslim. Muslim Americans are a diverse group with a wide range of beliefs and practices, and they contribute significantly to American society.

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict


A long-standing conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, rooted in competing claims to the same land. The conflict has been marked by violence, displacement, and political deadlock.

Q&A

  • What is the "Uncommitted Movement" and what are its goals?

    The "Uncommitted Movement" is a group of Arab American and Muslim voters who protested against President Biden's handling of the Gaza conflict. They aimed to send a message to Biden that a ceasefire in Gaza is imperative and that arms transfers to Israel need to stop.

  • How does the Uncommitted Movement view Vice President Harris as a potential replacement for Biden?

    The Uncommitted Movement sees Harris's emergence as an opportunity for a reset after frustration with Biden's policies. They are hopeful that Harris will be more responsive to their concerns regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

  • What are some of the key issues that are influencing uncommitted voters in the general election?

    Uncommitted voters are considering a range of issues, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Supreme Court, and reproductive rights. They are looking for a candidate who aligns with their values and addresses their concerns.

  • How is the Harris campaign attempting to engage with the Uncommitted Movement?

    The Harris campaign is taking steps to reach out to Muslim and Arab American voters, recognizing the importance of this group in the upcoming election. They are also trying to navigate the complex and divisive issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

  • What are the potential implications of the Gaza conflict for the Democratic National Convention?

    The Gaza conflict is likely to be a major issue at the Democratic National Convention, with potential for protests and disruptions. The conflict has exposed deep divisions within the Democratic Party, and the convention will be a platform for these divisions to be expressed.

Show Notes

President Biden saw a groundswell of protest during the Democratic primary as hundreds of thousands of voters concerned about the administration's response to Israel's war in Gaza voted "uncommitted." But some of the movements most prominent voices are tentatively warming to Kamala Harris, though they say there is still more work to be done.

This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, White House correspondent Asma Khalid, and national political correspondent Don Gonyea.

The podcast is produced by Casey Morell and Kelli Wessinger. Our intern is Bria Suggs. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.

Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.

Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Can Harris Win Over "Uncommitted" Voters Worried About Gaza?

Can Harris Win Over "Uncommitted" Voters Worried About Gaza?