Of equal importance for Arab Americans is the fact that the community is now better recognized as a political constituency. As a result, outreach to the community is on the agenda of both major political parties. An important article in the New York Times during the run up to the 1996 elections noted how, in Michigan, both the Democratic White House and that state s Republican governor expended significant energy in outreach directed at winning Arab Americans votes. Early indications point to the fact that these efforts are being repeated for 2000. In fact, the political progress of the community has been significant.
Voter registration is up, as is voter turnout.
Arab Americans now participate in major fundraising for candidates and parties, further enhancing the role of the community. And it is expected that this year, as in the past three presidential elections, over 80 Arab Americans will be elected as delegates and party leaders to both the Democratic and Republican national conventions. The readiness of Arab Americans to participate and the openness of the parties to work with them, in the 2000 elections, has been established by two separate days organized for Arab American political activists during the past two months. A similar day for Arab American Republicans will be held this week featuring, once again, high level meetings with Senate, congressional, party and campaign officials. This picture will become even clearer next month when Arab Americans convene a national leadership meeting in Michigan to prepare for 2000.