AS the 2024 US presidential election draws near, the political landscape within the Pakistani American community is experiencing a major shift. Historically aligned with the Democratic Party, a significant portion of this over six million strong community is re-evaluating its political loyalties, prompted by both domestic and international events. Pakistani Americans, concentrated in urban areas and key swing states, have emerged as a critical voting bloc, potentially shaping the outcome of this tightly contested election. The Pakistani American Public Affairs Committee (PAKPAC), a prominent organization representing this community, has announced its endorsement of former President Donald J. Trump for the 2024 election.
In a statement, PAKPAC acknowledged differences with Trump but emphasized their belief in his ability to improve US-Pakistan relations and secure the release of political prisoners in Pakistan, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan. They cited the Biden Administration’s inaction on Pakistan’s political turmoil as a reason for their support of Trump, hoping his leadership could reverse Pakistan’s democratic decline. The contrast between Trump’s past approach to Pakistan and the policies under President Joe Biden is striking. During his tenure, Trump facilitated dialogue with Pakistan, hosting the then-democratically elected Prime Minister and engaging in direct talks through high-level visits. PAKPAC’s endorsement stems from these interactions, which they feel have been neglected by the Biden Administration.
In particular, they criticized Biden for pushing Pakistan toward a legislative coup that unseated a popular leader, a move that has left many Pakistani Americans disillusioned. However, the endorsement is not unanimous within the community. Dr. Ijaz Ahmed, Chairman of the American Pakistan Public Affairs Committee (APPAC) and a former supporter of Biden, now backs Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy. Ahmed believes that the Biden Administration has made positive strides for the Pakistani American community and that continued support would strengthen US- Pakistan ties. This division reflects the broader schism within the community as they weigh their options ahead of the 2024 election. Among the factors contributing to this re-evaluation of political loyalties are two critical issues. First, the ongoing Gaza conflict has left many Pakistani Americans dissatisfied with President Biden’s handling of US Foreign Policy.
Many see his stance as too one-sided and damaging to the reputation of the US in the Muslim world. Second, the imprisonment of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has deeply resonated within the community. Many believe that Trump’s return to power could offer diplomatic leverage to secure Khan’s release, further fuelling pro-Trump sentiments. Business tycoon and community leader Tanweer Ahmed is one such figure who strongly supports Trump, seeing him as the best candidate to not only improve Pakistan’s internal situation but also fulfill the demands of overseas Pakistanis. Beyond foreign policy, the domestic concerns of Pakistani American voters are gaining prominence.
Issues such as immigration reform, healthcare access, quality education and combating discrimination against Muslims are key factors influencing the community’s voting preferences. These concerns are reflected in the increasing political activism within the community. In 2022, two Pakistani Americans were elected to the Texas State Assembly, a milestone that marks the growing influence of this demographic in US politics. This surge in local political engagement is particularly notable among younger generations, who are driving voter registration efforts and pushing for greater representation in the democratic process. Prominent Pakistani American leaders, such as businessman Tahir Javed, have observed the community’s growing divide, emphasizing how global and local concerns are shaping voting behaviours. Javed, a long-time Democrat, acknowledges the split within the community, noting that many are reconsidering their long-standing allegiance to the Democratic Party. This rift could prove decisive in key battleground states where the Pakistani American vote may tip the balance in favour of either candidate.
As both Republicans and Democrats ramp up their outreach to immigrant communities, Pakistani Americans find themselves at the centre of the political conversation. With their evolving political views and growing participation in US elections, they are poised to play a significant role in determining the next president. The 2024 election will not only be a test of the political power of Pakistani Americans but also a reflection of broader demographic shifts in the United States. Their influence could offer a window into how immigrant communities are shaping the future of American politics, as they increasingly move from being voters to policymakers. The coming weeks will be pivotal as both parties vie for the support of this community. The question remains: will Pakistani Americans continue their historical support for the Democrats, or will Trump’s outreach and promises of a stronger US-Pakistan relationship sway enough voters to secure his return to the White House? The answer will have significant implications, not just for US politics, but for the future of US-Pakistan relations and the global stage.
—The writer is a senior journalist and media expert:
