A high-profile case involving an alleged assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump takes an unexpected turn as the accused maintains his innocence.
Forbes reported that Ryan Routh, 58, has pleaded not guilty to charges related to an alleged attempt to assassinate former President Donald Trump.
The charges, which include attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate and assaulting a federal officer, carry a potential life sentence. Prosecutors claim that Routh had been planning the assassination for months, citing a letter allegedly written by the suspect. The case has garnered significant attention due to its high-profile target and the serious nature of the charges.
The incident in question occurred on September 15 at Trump International Golf Club in Palm Beach County, Florida.
According to police reports, a Secret Service agent fired at a man hiding in the shrubbery at the golf club. The suspect fled the scene, leaving behind an AK-47-style rifle with a scope and other supplies. Prosecutors allege that Routh spent nearly 12 hours hiding at the golf course before his arrest on a Florida highway.
Investigators claim to have found a handwritten list of dates and locations in Routh's car, corresponding to Trump's past and future appearances. Despite the elaborate planning, prosecutors state that Routh never fired a shot and did not have a clear line to shoot during the incident.
Prosecutors claim that Routh delivered this letter to an unnamed witness. The letter reportedly contained incriminating statements about the assassination attempt. According to prosecutors, the letter read:
This was an assassination attempt on Donald Trump but I failed you. I tried my best and gave it all the gumption I could muster.
The letter also allegedly offered a substantial sum of money to anyone who could "complete the job." This evidence has become a central point of contention in the case.
At a recent hearing, Routh's attorneys argued that the letter was likely an attempt by their client to gain publicity. They suggested that Routh was seeking attention for his efforts to promote democracy in Ukraine and Taiwan rather than genuinely plotting an assassination.
The case has been assigned to Judge Aileen Cannon, a Trump appointee who previously oversaw and dismissed the federal criminal classified documents case against the former president. This assignment adds another layer of complexity to an already high-profile case.
While Routh is not accused of firing a shot at Trump, the incident has prompted discussions about the effectiveness of current security protocols. The fact that a suspect allegedly spent nearly 12 hours hiding at a golf course frequented by a former president has led to calls for enhanced security measures.
The legal proceedings will likely focus on the intent behind Routh's actions and the credibility of the evidence presented by prosecutors. The defense's strategy of portraying the letter as a publicity stunt rather than a genuine threat will be a key point of contention.
Ryan Routh has pleaded not guilty to charges related to an alleged assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a Florida golf club. Prosecutors claim Routh wrote a letter months earlier detailing his plans, but his defense argues it was merely a publicity stunt. The case, which carries a potential life sentence, has been assigned to Judge Aileen Cannon and has led to related legal troubles for Routh's family.
In a groundbreaking move, Minneapolis has sworn in its first non-U.S. citizen as a police officer, marking a significant shift in the city's law enforcement recruitment policies.
As reported by Breitbart News, Lesly Vera, a Somali native and legal resident alien, took her oath of office on Thursday, becoming the first non-citizen officer in the Minneapolis Police Department.
Vera, who arrived in the United States at the age of four, was seen wearing a hijab during the swearing-in ceremony.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara defended the decision to appoint a non-citizen officer, drawing parallels to the military service of immigrants. Mayor Jacob Frey expressed pride in the department's growing diversity, emphasizing the importance of a police force that reflects the community it serves.
The appointment of Vera was made possible by recent changes in Minnesota's police recruitment regulations. Last year, the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) modified its rules to allow non-citizens who are legal residents and authorized to work in the U.S. to serve as police officers.
This policy change reflects a broader trend, with states like California, Colorado, and Illinois also considering similar legislation to permit non-citizens to join their police forces. The move aims to diversify law enforcement and better represent the communities they protect.
Minneapolis, home to the largest Somali community in the United States, has been a focal point for Somali migration since the 1990s. The city's generous welfare programs and the opportunity for expatriates to live among their countrymen have been significant factors in attracting Somali immigrants.
The swearing-in of a non-citizen officer has triggered widespread discussion and criticism on social media. Among those raising concerns is Elon Musk, the head of X (previously Twitter), who questioned the idea of non-citizens holding authority over U.S. citizens.
Musk drew a historical comparison, noting that the Roman Empire similarly began to depend on non-citizens within its army during its decline.
Despite the controversy, Mayor Frey remains optimistic about the direction of the police department. He stated:
It's moving. It's emotional. I mean, I talked about the hope in the room, from a personal standpoint as mayor of the city, it gives me a lot of hope. Our police department is looking more and more like the communities that we are charged with protecting and serving.
The appointment of Vera comes against the backdrop of a complex history between the Somali community and law enforcement in Minneapolis. In 2017, the city faced controversy when Somali-native police officer Mohamed Noor was involved in the shooting death of an Australian woman responding to a 911 call. Noor was subsequently convicted of manslaughter and served a 57-month sentence.
Additionally, the Somali community in Minneapolis has recently been implicated in a significant Medicaid fraud case involving tens of millions of dollars stolen through a fake charity called Feeding Our Future, run by prominent local Somali residents.
In conclusion, Minneapolis has taken a bold step by swearing in its first non-citizen police officer, Lesly Vera. This move, enabled by recent changes in Minnesota's police recruitment policies, aims to increase diversity within the force. While the decision has sparked debate and criticism, city officials remain committed to building a police department that reflects the community it serves.
Vice President Kamala Harris was reportedly preparing to confront former President Donald Trump during his visit to a highly anticipated college football game in Alabama.
Harris planned to fly a banner over the stadium and air a national TV ad, both aimed at pressuring Trump into agreeing to a second debate before the upcoming election, as the Daily Mail reports.
The showdown was to take place during the Alabama Crimson Tide’s clash with the Georgia Bulldogs at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa. Trump was attending the game as part of a brief break from his campaign. Harris, however, was using this event as an opportunity to challenge him directly.
Harris arranged for a plane to fly over the stadium with a banner set to read: "Trump’s Punting on 2nd Debate." The message refers to Trump’s reluctance to commit to a second debate after their first confrontation earlier this month.
Trump previously participated in mid-October debates in both the 2016 and 2020 elections. However, despite his past participation, he has expressed concerns about the timing of this potential debate, as it would fall on Oct. 23, after early voting begins. Meanwhile, Harris has agreed to a second debate, which would be hosted by CNN, and is attempting to pressure Trump into joining her on stage once more.
In addition to the banner, Harris’ campaign has also produced a TV ad that was to air during the game on ESPN. The ad aimed to emphasize the importance of meeting challenges head-on, a direct jab at Trump’s hesitation to commit to the debate. The ad’s narrator makes pointed remarks, stating: "Winners never back down from a challenge. Champions know it’s any time, any place. But losers, they whine and waffle and take their ball home." The message aligns with Harris’ strategy to portray Trump as avoiding a critical debate.
Harris emerged as a strong candidate after their first debate earlier this month, with poll numbers showing she retained a strong chance of winning the popular vote. Trump, however, continues to hold a lead in the electoral college projections.
While Harris is pressuring Trump, the former president still holds a solid lead in the electoral college projections, according to a recent poll from the Mail. Trump is leading Harris by 10 points, with a 55.2% chance of winning the electoral college. Harris, on the other hand, leads in the popular vote, with 50.8% support and a 65% chance of winning the majority of votes come November. Despite this, her chances of securing the electoral college are currently lower than Trump's, at 44.6%.
The election could still be closely contested, with only a slim chance of a tie. Harris remains determined to push Trump into a second debate, which could play a key role in influencing undecided voters.
Trump’s appearance at the game came as he stepped away from the campaign trail for the evening. He was invited to attend the game by Alabama businessman Ric Mayers and was to be joined by several prominent individuals.
Those in attendance with Trump were to include Alabama Sen.s Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville, as well as John Wahl, the chairman of the Alabama Republican Party. Mayers and his friends and family were also to accompany Trump at the event. The game itself was expected to draw significant attention, not only for its on-field action but for the political drama unfolding above and around the stadium.
Harris’ focus on the debate underscores the importance of public confrontation in the final stretch of the election campaign. Her decision to fly the banner and air the TV ad during such a high-profile event signals her commitment to pushing Trump on the debate stage. Trump, however, has yet to confirm whether he will accept the challenge. His campaign has cited the timing of the proposed debate as problematic, particularly with early voting underway.
The game at Bryant-Denny Stadium was slated to serve as more than just a battleground for the Crimson Tide and Bulldogs. It was also set to mark a pivotal moment in the 2024 presidential election as Harris attempts to force a second debate with Trump.
A recently released preliminary report concerning the first assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump reveals multiple security lapses by the U.S. Secret Service.
The Senate Homeland Security Committee's findings show several Secret Service mistakes, which ultimately led to the death of a Trump supporter, Corey Comperatore, as Breitbart reports.
The preliminary investigation exposes significant shortcomings from the preparation stage to the day of the attempt. These failures have led to a tragic loss, highlighting the vital need for answers and improvements.
Comperatore, a firefighter from Pennsylvania, tragically lost his life while protecting his family. The failure of the Secret Service to respond to repeated requests for more stringent security measures is at the center of the controversy.
Sen Rand Paul (R-KY) a member of the Homeland Security Committee, has been outspoken about the security failures. He emphasized the repeated errors, labeling them a "litany of failures."
Paul criticized the actions of the Secret Service, noting that the errors ranged from the preparation stages to minutes before the attempt. The widespread incompetence has been a significant concern. "It’s not just one error," Paul said, describing the continuous string of mistakes that plagued the incident. This sentiment resonates with many who demand accountability for the failures.
The report also draws attention to a subsequent assassination attempt that occurred two months later. During this attempt, the shooter had set the location of his weapon for over 12 hours and targeted Trump for 30 days. Despite requests for additional security measures, such as counter-snipers, many were denied for months prior to the Butler event. This refusal raised further questions about the security provided to the former president. Paul confronted the acting Secret Service director, Ronald Rowe Jr., about these denials. The lack of satisfactory answers continues to be a point of contention.
Paul emphasized the repeated requests for enhanced security, including the need for counter-snipers, which were continually denied. These rejections have become a focal point of the ongoing investigation.
The presence of counter-snipers during the Butler assassination attempt succeeded in averting further shots. The importance of such measures has been underscored by these recent events. "Had they not been there," Paul remarked, "Imagine the potential increase in shots fired." This hypothetical scenario highlights the potential consequences of inadequate security.
The failure to address the security concerns has spurred bipartisan demand for answers. The call for comprehensive investigation spans across both political spectrums, reflecting widespread concern over the security lapses. Paul has been vocal in pursuing information about the security requests that were denied. The ongoing inquiry aims to uncover who was responsible and why these decisions were made.
Rowe Jr. is being pressed to provide detailed information about the requested and denied security measures. The lack of transparency has only increased the urgency for a thorough investigation.
The entire episode surrounding the assassination attempts underscores a significant lapse in security for former President Trump. The preliminary report’s findings have sparked a necessary conversation on rectifying these failures. The bipartisan demand for answers, led by figures such as Sen. Rand Paul, seeks to ensure that similar oversights do not happen in the future. The tragic loss of Corey Comperatore remains a poignant reminder of the stakes involved.
The critical assessment of the Secret Service's handling of Trump's security continues to unfold. Ensuring adequate protection for public figures is a nonpartisan concern that necessitates immediate attention and resolution.
As reported by Fox News, Vice President Kamala Harris's recent economic address has ignited a firestorm of reactions on social media.
During a speech at The Economic Club of Pittsburgh, Harris urged Americans to "move past the failed policies" in November, which drew mockery from conservative commentators who found irony in her statement due to her role in the administration.
Harris emphasized her middle-class background and pledged to build a stronger middle class through various proposals. These include increasing tax breaks for new small businesses and offering a $25,000 credit to first-time homebuyers. However, it was her comments about moving beyond ineffective policies that caught the attention of critics.
The Vice President's speech aimed to address key economic concerns and present solutions for the future. She stressed the importance of a robust middle class for America's strength and prosperity.
Harris stated:
When the middle class is strong. America is strong. And we can build a stronger middle class. The American economy-- is the most powerful force for innovation and wealth creation in human history. We just need to move past the failed policies that we have proven don't work. And like generations before us, let us be inspired by what is possible.
This statement, particularly the part about moving past failed policies, became a focal point for criticism on social media platforms.
The response from conservative political commentators was swift and filled with sarcasm. Many interpreted Harris's call to move past failed policies as an inadvertent endorsement of her opponents.
Steve Cortes, a former 2020 Trump campaign advisor and Fox News contributor, quipped, "Acceptance is the first step." Other commentators like Buzz Patterson and Seth Dillon of The Babylon Bee echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that Harris was unknowingly advocating for a change in administration.
Harris's speech comes at a time when she trails her potential 2024 opponent, former President Donald Trump, on key issues such as the economy and inflation, according to recent polls.
The Vice President also took a direct jab at Trump during her speech, referring to him as "one of the biggest losers ever." Interestingly, this phrase was also used by President Biden on the same day during an appearance on "The View."
Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Texas, responded to Harris's comments by agreeing that the American people are indeed tired of what he called the "Harris-Biden Administration's failed policies," eagerly anticipating the November elections.
Harris's recent focus on economic issues appears to be an attempt to narrow the gap between herself and Trump on what many consider to be Americans' top concern. Her speech in Pittsburgh is part of a broader strategy to address economic challenges and present her vision for the future.
Vice President Harris's call to move past failed policies has sparked debate and mockery. Her speech, intended to outline economic plans, instead became a target for critics. The incident highlights the challenges Harris faces in addressing key voter concerns like the economy and inflation as the 2024 election approaches.
Newly surfaced photos reveal Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s unexpected encounter at a 2016 New York City party.
According to Daily Mail, exclusive images show the 70-year-old Kennedy scion and his wife, actress Cheryl Hines, attending a VIP birthday celebration at the historic Harold Pratt House. The event took an unconventional turn with the presence of burlesque dancers.
The photos depict Kennedy, dressed in a black suit and tie, intently watching a scantily clad performer. His wife, donning a plunging black cocktail dress, appears visibly uncomfortable with the risqué entertainment.
Kennedy's fascination with the burlesque show stands in stark contrast to Hines' apparent discomfort. The images show the independent presidential candidate seated close to the stage, maintaining his gaze as a dancer removes her top, revealing pasties.
An unnamed partygoer described the scene, noting Hines' shocked expression and eventual departure from the immediate area. Kennedy, however, remained in his seat throughout the performance.
This incident has resurfaced amidst recent allegations of a "sexting affair" between Kennedy and New York Magazine journalist Olivia Nuzzi, adding another layer of complexity to the politician's public image.
The emergence of these photos comes at a challenging time for Kennedy's personal life. Reports suggest that his ten-year marriage to Hines may be under strain following the sexting scandal with Nuzzi.
Kennedy has responded aggressively to the allegations, with reports indicating he is considering legal action against Nuzzi. Jessica Reed Kraus, writing for House Inhabit Substack, claims that Kennedy's team believes Nuzzi may have been attempting to "set him up."
The situation has reportedly prompted an investigation by security expert Gavin de Becker to explore potential grounds for a civil suit against the journalist.
This is not the first time Kennedy has faced allegations of extramarital affairs. His late second wife, Mary Richardson, once claimed he used aliases for trysts across the globe. Additionally, personal diaries obtained by the New York Post after Richardson's death in 2012 reportedly documented numerous infidelities.
Kennedy addressed these diaries, describing them as tools for "self-examination" and dealing with "spiritual struggles." However, the content allegedly details encounters with up to 37 different women over a single year.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Kennedy continues to maintain a public presence. He was recently seen dining with Republican Representative Thomas Massie and participating in a panel discussion on Capitol Hill hosted by Senator Ron Johnson.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s appearance at the 2016 burlesque show has resurfaced amidst recent allegations of infidelity. The photos depict Kennedy's apparent interest in the provocative performance, contrasting with his wife's visible discomfort. This incident adds to the ongoing controversy surrounding Kennedy's personal life and political career.
House Republicans and the Republican National Committee (RNC) are pressing for transparency from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz's administration regarding the removal of noncitizens from state voter rolls.
According to Fox News, Republican representatives from Minnesota, along with RNC officials, have sent a follow-up letter to state officials demanding updates on voter roll cleanup efforts.
The letter comes after the discovery that noncitizens and ineligible individuals were improperly registered to vote under Minnesota's automatic voter registration process.
The GOP letter, addressed to Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon and Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson, acknowledges previous communication between their offices. Republicans claim they provided the information necessary to remove known noncitizens from voter rolls over a month ago but have received limited updates on actions taken.
The letter, signed by Representatives Tom Emmer, Brad Finstad, Michelle Fischbach, and Pete Stauber, along with RNC election integrity counsel Kevin J. Cline and Minnesota Republican Party Chairman David Hann, raises several pointed questions about the voter registration cleanup process.
Republicans are demanding to know the exact number of individuals whose registrations were inactivated, the categories of missing information in individual records, and how many inactivated individuals have voted in past elections or were sent ballots previously.
The GOP officials are also inquiring whether any of the inactivated individuals will be able to register and vote in the upcoming November election and if eliminating these votes would have changed the outcome of any past elections.
The controversy stems from recent changes in Minnesota's voter registration laws. In March 2023, Governor Walz signed a bill allowing noncitizens to receive driver's licenses, known as "Driver License for All."
Two months later, Walz signed the "Democracy for the People Act," which permitted automatic voter registration through the Department of Public Safety's Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division. Republicans argue that this combination of laws may have led to the improper registration of noncitizens.
RNC election integrity counsel Kevin J. Cline and Minnesota Republican Party Chairman David Hann stated in their letter:
It is imperative that Minnesota voters trust in the State's election system, which includes knowing the voter rolls only consist of legally registered voters.
The Minnesota Secretary of State's office has admitted to some issues with the registration process. In a September 12 news release, the office disclosed that the DVS flagged a small number of applicant files as needing additional confirmation of voter registration information, including address, name, and citizenship.
The Secretary of State's office stated that out of caution, they have inactivated the voter registrations of individuals whose registrations were flagged by DVS. These individuals may still be eligible to vote but will need to re-register due to human error in document classification or database saving.
The GOP's demand for transparency in Minnesota's voter roll cleanup efforts highlights ongoing concerns about election integrity. As the November election approaches, the accuracy of voter rolls remains a critical issue for both state officials and political parties. The Walz administration's response to these inquiries will likely shape the ongoing debate over voter registration processes in Minnesota.
A man charged in connection with an apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump left behind a disturbing note, according to court documents.
Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, left a box with a letter stating "This was an assassination attempt" months before his arrest, according to NBC News. He was ordered to remain in jail during a court hearing on September 23, 2024.
The box, which also contained ammunition and four phones, was discovered by a civilian who contacted law enforcement after learning about the incident at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach on September 15. The handwritten letter addressed "To The World" included a statement admitting to a failed assassination attempt on Donald Trump.
On September 15, a Secret Service agent moving ahead of Trump during a golf outing spotted a partially obscured face and a rifle barrel aimed in their direction. The agent fired at the individual, who then fled the scene.
Routh was subsequently arrested on Interstate 95 after being spotted by a witness. He now faces charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
Authorities conducted a search of Routh's Nissan Xterra, uncovering six cellphones, multiple pairs of gloves, and various documents. One cellphone contained a Google search for travel routes from Palm Beach County to Mexico.
Court documents indicate that Routh had been surveilling the area for weeks prior to the incident. Cell site records showed that he had traveled from Greensboro, North Carolina, to West Palm Beach on August 14.
From August 18 to September 15, Routh's cellphone accessed towers near Trump International and Mar-a-Lago on multiple occasions. A notebook found in his possession contained lists of Trump's appearances and expected venues for August, September, and October.
FBI Special Agent Jessie Hayden stated:
Any established ties to Southern District of Florida is for one reason only, and that was to kill former President Trump.
Law enforcement discovered a rifle with an attached scope and obliterated serial number at the golf course, along with an extended magazine and body armor plates. A fingerprint found on the firearm preliminarily matched Routh's.
The suspect's vehicle contained multiple license plates, suggesting an attempt to conceal his movements. Additionally, investigators found a notebook with entries related to Ukraine, criticisms of the Chinese and Russian governments, and discussions about joining the fight for Ukraine.
During the court hearing, Routh appeared emotionless, wearing a blue jumpsuit and shackles. His defense attorney mentioned that Routh's sister, a licensed attorney in North Carolina, was willing to house him if released on bail.
Ryan Wesley Routh's arrest and the subsequent revelations have shed light on an apparent assassination plot against former President Donald Trump. The discovery of incriminating evidence, including a confession note and surveillance details, led to Routh being held in jail pending trial. The incident at Trump International Golf Club on September 15 was thwarted by quick-acting Secret Service agents, preventing a potentially dangerous situation.
Democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz found himself at the center of a social media storm following an ambiguous statement made during a rally in Pennsylvania.
Fox News reported that Walz, who is running alongside Vice President Kamala Harris, made a comment during his speech that led to widespread mockery online. The incident occurred during a campaign event in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, on Saturday afternoon.
While discussing gun violence and the measures taken in Minnesota, such as enhanced background checks and red flag laws, Walz became distracted by an audience member who appeared to need water. After addressing this concern, he returned to his speech, criticizing former President Trump and his running mate, JD Vance.
Walz's statement that sparked controversy came as he was wrapping up his speech. He said:
We can't afford four more years of this.
The ambiguity of this remark led many conservative commentators to interpret it as an unintended criticism of the Biden administration.
Rita Panahi, a conservative commentator, took to X (formerly Twitter) to question, "Dude is campaigning for Trump now?" Similarly, Donald Trump Jr. jokingly replied, "I'm with Him/Tim."
The Trump War Room, an X account run by Trump's presidential campaign, seized the opportunity to comment on Walz's statement, posting:
WALZ FINALLY TELLS THE TRUTH: 'We can't afford four more years' of Kamala Harris.
It's important to note that Walz's statement came in the context of discussing gun violence and criticizing the rhetoric of the Trump campaign. He had been emphasizing Vice President Harris's stance that the current situation "doesn't have to be this way."
Following his controversial remark, Walz transitioned to discussing Project 2025, a topic that the Trump campaign has repeatedly disavowed. This context suggests that Walz may have been referring to gun violence or Trump's rhetoric when he mentioned "four more years" of an issue.
The incident highlights the intense scrutiny faced by political figures during campaign events and the speed at which statements can be disseminated and interpreted on social media platforms.
While Walz's intention may have been to criticize the opposition, the ambiguity of his statement allowed for multiple interpretations, which were quickly seized upon by political opponents.
This event occurs against the backdrop of a highly contentious presidential race, where every word and action of candidates and their surrogates is closely analyzed and often used for political advantage.
Tim Walz's rally remarks in Pennsylvania led to widespread online debate. His statement about not affording "four more years" was interpreted by some as an inadvertent criticism of the current administration. The incident underscores the challenges of political communication in the age of social media and the ongoing intense scrutiny of the presidential campaign.
Hamtramck, Michigan, Mayor Amer Ghalib is rethinking his political allegiance after a private meeting with former President Donald Trump.
Ghalib's productive discussion with Trump could signify a shift among Arab American voters, traditionally Democratic in voting patterns, as frustration with the Biden administration grows, as Breitbart reports.
Ghalib, who leads a community of Arab Americans and Muslims in Hamtramck, Michigan, met with Trump in Flint last week. The meeting, which Ghalib described as "very productive," lasted for about 20 minutes and opened a channel of communication between the mayor and the former president. The Arab American community in Wayne County, long seen as a Democratic stronghold, is increasingly critical of President Joe Biden’s handling of foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East.
The mayor shared that many Arab American and Muslim residents in cities like Hamtramck and Dearborn are dissatisfied with Biden’s response to the Israel-Hamas conflict. According to Ghalib, more than 100,000 people in Michigan cast “uncommitted” votes during the Democratic primary, a move meant to protest the administration’s stance on the war. This protest could have a significant impact on the upcoming election.
In addition to the discontent over U.S. foreign policy, economic concerns are also playing a role in the shifting political landscape of Wayne County. Ghalib, reflecting on his community’s frustration, explained that while Biden won Michigan in 2020 by a margin of over 150,000 votes, more than 100,000 votes were cast as uncommitted in protest of the administration's policies.
"I wouldn’t claim that I represent all these people," Ghalib said, "but I know a major portion of the Arab American community are happy with my meeting with Trump." He emphasized that his constituents are looking for a change, particularly in U.S. foreign and economic policies, and that the former president offers a potential alternative.
During the meeting, Ghalib and Trump discussed the changing political dynamics of Wayne County. The mayor noted that his city, once reliably Democratic, no longer feels an obligation to support the party. Trump's promise to "end the chaos" in the Middle East resonated with many in the Arab American community, Ghalib said.
Ghalib has already begun taking steps to further involve his community in the Republican movement. He discussed the possibility of opening a Trump 47 office in Hamtramck to promote voter registration and absentee ballot requests. Ghalib also extended an invitation to Trump to hold a rally in Hamtramck, highlighting growing support for the former president.
The response to Ghalib’s meeting with Trump has been overwhelmingly positive within his community. "I posted about President Trump, and 95% of the comments and phone calls I received were supportive," he said. The mayor believes that this support, coupled with the recent political shifts in Wayne County, could make a significant difference in the upcoming election.
Ghalib added that the "uncommitted" movement, along with campaigns like "Abandon Harris," could be pivotal in determining Michigan’s outcome in 2024. With Michigan considered a key battleground state, even a small shift in the Arab American vote could have a substantial impact on the results.
In 2016, Trump won Michigan by just 10,704 votes. Ghalib believes that if even a portion of the "uncommitted" votes from the Democratic Party primary were to swing Republican in 2024, it could tip the scales in Trump's favor. "If 50% of those people decided to vote for Trump," Ghalib explained, "that would be a major change and a big support for President Trump."
The meeting with Trump came after Ghalib refused multiple opportunities to meet with President Biden, citing frustrations with both foreign and domestic policies. "We refused to meet President Biden a couple of times," Ghalib stated, noting that his stance remains unchanged because there has been no shift in policy.
While Ghalib acknowledged that he does not speak for every Arab American voter, he emphasized that many in his community are ready for change. Whether or not this change involves Trump remains to be seen, but the mayor’s meeting with the former president could pave the way for an endorsement.