Vice President Kamala Harris confronted anti-Israel hecklers who disrupted her Detroit campaign rally on Wednesday night, warning that their actions could jeopardize the upcoming November 5 election.
As protesters chanted, “Kamala! Kamala! You Can’t Hide! We Won’t Vote for Genocide!” Harris responded sharply, “You know what? If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that. Otherwise, I’m speaking.” The 59-year-old Democratic presidential nominee paused to glare at the demonstrators after their repeated interruptions.
Earlier, Harris had attempted to remain composed, addressing the crowd with a more measured tone, “I’m here because we believe in democracy. Everyone’s voice matters, but I am speaking now.”
President Joe Biden, 81, who withdrew from the presidential race on July 21 and endorsed Kamala Harris as his successor, faced months of angry protests with the nickname “Genocide Joe!” being chanted. Polling in swing states indicated that Arab and Muslim voters were likely to abandon Biden, which could potentially benefit former President Donald Trump, 78.
Michigan, known for its significant Arab and Muslim populations, has become a focal point. Trump secured the presidency in 2016 with unexpected victories in Michigan and other swing states, but Biden managed to reclaim these states in 2020, defeating Trump.
* The New York Post contributed to this article.