The group formerly known as Arab Americans for Trump is rebranding itself as Arab Americans for Peace following President Trump’s controversial statement about “taking over” the Gaza Strip. The name change reflects the group’s opposition to the president’s proposal of U.S. involvement in redeveloping Gaza. Chairman Bishara Bahbah emphasized the group’s commitment to peace and their objection to displacing Palestinians from Historic Palestine.
Arab Americans for Trump played a crucial role in voter outreach efforts for Trump in swing states like Michigan and Arizona during the 2024 presidential election. The group, which operated independently from the Trump campaign, facilitated meetings between Arab American leaders and Trump’s allies, including Richard Grenell and Massad Boulos. Trump’s success in winning Dearborn, Michigan, a city with a significant Arab American population, underscored the group’s impact in the election.
The decision to change the group’s name was made in response to Trump’s recent remarks, signaling a shift towards advocating for peace rather than aligning with specific political figures. Arab Americans for Peace expressed appreciation for the president’s intentions to rebuild Gaza but criticized the suggestion of taking over Gaza and displacing its Palestinian residents. This rebranding reflects the group’s continued commitment to promoting peace and opposing actions that could harm Palestinian communities.