Vice President Kamala Harris has recently secured a significant endorsement from one of the nation’s largest Muslim American voter mobilization groups. This endorsement from Emgage Action, the political arm of an 18-year-old Muslim American advocacy group, comes as a boost to Harris’ campaign, especially since many Muslim and Arab American organizations have chosen to support third-party candidates or remain uncommitted.

Emgage Action’s endorsement of Harris, announced on Wednesday, reflects the group’s commitment to defeating Donald Trump in November. The organization, with a presence in key battleground states like Michigan and Pennsylvania, will focus on supporting Harris in her presidential bid, along with down-ballot candidates.

CEO of Emgage Action, Wa’el Alzayat, emphasized that the endorsement does not indicate full agreement with Harris on all issues. However, it serves as a pragmatic choice to guide voters facing a challenging decision at the ballot box.

The endorsement comes after months of tensions between Arab American and Muslim groups and Democratic leaders over the handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Many groups, including leaders of the “Uncommitted” movement, have refrained from endorsing any candidate due to these issues.

Alzayat described the decision to endorse Harris as difficult but ultimately aligned with many of her domestic policies. Emgage Action’s hope for a Harris presidency includes a positive resolution to the Middle East conflict.

The endorsement is seen as a move to prevent a return to Islamophobic policies under a Trump administration, citing concerns over Trump’s past actions like the “Muslim ban.”

Harris’ campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, emphasized the importance of this endorsement, especially amidst current challenges faced by Muslim and Arab American communities.

Harris remains committed to addressing the Gaza conflict and working towards a sustainable solution that benefits all parties involved, as stated by Rodriguez.