Jul 25, 2024 - News

Minnesota's uncommitted DNC delegates won't endorse Harris without change in Israel stance

Kyle Stokes

A woman wearing a hijab over her head and a keffiyeh around her neck holds a microphone at a press conference. — Asma Mohammed, co-chair of Minnesota's contingent of uncommitted delegates to the Democratic National Convention, celebrates the results of the state's presidential primary in March. Photo: Stephen Maturen/AFP via Getty Images

For Minnesota's uncommitted delegates to the Democratic National Convention, the shakeup in the presidential race changed little: Many will not support Kamala Harris unless she commits to big policy shifts on the Israel-Hamas war.

Why it matters: Minnesota's 11-member "uncommitted" contingent is the largest of any state. This spring, 18% of primary voters chose no candidate in protest over what they saw as the administration's role in a humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

What they're saying: A viable candidate "cannot win" here without making sure these uncommitted voters show up in November, said Asma Mohammed, co-chair of the state's uncommitted delegation. Meanwhile, former President Trump hopes to put Minnesota's electoral votes in play.

"We are Democrats. We do not want a Trump presidency," she told Axios.

State of play: Mohammed told Axios the uncommitted delegates would withhold their endorsement unless Harris committed to ending military aid to Israel.

They also want Harris' support for a "permanent ceasefire" deal in Gaza. (The U.S. is attempting to broker one now.)

In Michigan, uncommitted delegate Abbas Alawieh had a similar sentiment. "If Vice President Harris meaningfully engages with our demands … I will personally mobilize for reelection," he told Axios Detroit.

Yes, but: In an interview with Axios before Biden's withdrawal, Minnesota DFL Party Chair Ken Martin said he doubts any Democrats will sit out the "existential" general election, given "how dangerous Donald Trump is."

Take U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar for example. The Minneapolis Democrat endorsed both Biden and Harris, despite criticism of the president's Israel policy.

The intrigue: Those uncommitted votes were against Biden, not Harris, and Mohammed is "cautiously optimistic" that the pivot offers a chance for a reset.

While careful not to break with Biden on substance, the Washington Post reported that Harris has struck a different tone, questioning Israel's military strategy and emphasizing the human toll in Gaza while also condemning Hamas.

Friction point: Mohammed's optimism is tempered by Harris' acceptance of funds from a pro-Israel PAC.

Zoom out: Out of nearly 4,000 DNC delegates nationally, 36 are uncommitted.

Pro-Palestinian advocacy groups tell Axios Chicago that plans for major protests near the DNC venue have not changed since Biden's withdrawal.

Through a Minnesota spokesperson, Harris' campaign declined to comment to Axios.

Axios' Torey Van Oot and Samuel Robinson contributed reporting.

Add Axios on Google

Minnesota's uncommitted DNC delegates won't endorse Harris without change in Israel stance

More Twin Cities stories