Renowned presidential candidate, Cornel West, has set his sights on Michigan as he seeks to win over voter groups that President Joe Biden is struggling with. West plans to target Arab American voters in Dearborn, Flint’s environmental justice advocates, university students, and indigenous populations during his visit to the state early next year, according to plans shared with POLITICO.
Michigan’s diverse population presents a unique opportunity for West to court support, especially at a time when Biden’s struggle with voters of color is increasingly evident. Recent polling in Michigan indicates a softening of support for Biden among Black voters and significant criticism from the state’s large Arab American population regarding the administration’s approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Despite operating on a limited budget and with an unconventional campaign structure, West, a Black intellectual with longstanding ties to these communities, believes he is well-positioned to appeal to these groups. He asserts that he is the only candidate capable of bringing sensitivity and sanity to the suffering in Gaza and steering the nation forward.
As West maps out his nationwide campaign, he is also assembling a team to execute his vision. His team, including Anthony Karefa Rogers-Wright and Ceyanna Dent, is geared towards environmental and climate justice and grassroots organizing. In typical jazz parlance, West described his campaign as “more out and free,” emphasizing the need to adopt unconventional and unorthodox approaches.
One of West’s strengths lies in his appeal to progressive groups, and he intends to capitalize on these connections. His plans include public appearances across Michigan, focusing on the Arab American community, Flint’s water crisis, environmental justice issues, university students, and indigenous populations.
Although West faces financial challenges, his campaign has garnered over $320,000 in support within four months. Despite a significant financial disadvantage relative to major party candidates, early polls indicate he is averaging about 3.8 percent in national polls of a four-way race.
Looking ahead, West is optimistic about securing ballot access in at least 35 states, with legal support and collective backing from other third-party candidates, such as Ralph Nader and Jill Stein. His campaign is also considering potential vice-presidential picks to bolster its appeal.
While the odds are against him, with no third-party candidate winning the presidency since the 19th century, West remains steadfast in his vision. He believes that voters are seeking genuine leadership and statespersons, emphasizing a desire for change from traditional politicians.
