This community’s growing influence in shaping U.S. policies towards Egypt and the Middle East can be attributed to the presence of approximately 918,000 citizens of Egyptian descent, many of whom reside in swing states such as Michigan and Florida. Amid a battle between the Republican and Democratic parties to win these votes, the Egyptian-American community finds itself in a strategic position to support the candidate they believe will best strengthen US-Egypt relations and promote stability in the region.

The Egyptian-American community reflects a broad spectrum of political perspectives. While many Egyptian-Americans hold conservative values that align with the Republican Party’s stance on traditional values, they are also highly invested in issues of democracy and human rights, championed by the Democratic Party. This balance makes the Egyptian community challenging for either party to fully sway, as their focus remains on issues such as immigration, education, healthcare, and community safety, making their votes a prime target for both campaigns.

The Egyptian-American community’s priorities span both domestic and international concerns. On the domestic front, community security and immigration reform are top priorities, especially amid ongoing debates over protecting Arab and Muslim communities from discrimination.

Egyptians tend to favour Democratic policies that aim to improve the conditions for immigrants and uphold their rights. Internationally, US foreign policy towards Egypt and the Middle East is a crucial factor, with the Egyptian-American community closely monitoring the candidates’ commitment to providing real support to Egypt, particularly regarding regional stability and US aid.

Both campaigns reflect the importance of winning Egyptian-American support. Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, has recognized the value of connecting with the Egyptian-American community by appointing Egyptian-American attorney Brenda Abdel-Aal to lead outreach efforts to this group. This demonstrates her clear interest in their issues, including immigrant rights and improved Middle East relations.

Harris’s campaign emphasizes support for minority rights and equality, which resonates with Egyptian-Americans who advocate for social justice and minority rights.

In contrast, Republican candidate Donald Trump relies on a message that appeals to conservative values, aligning with the views of traditionalist Egyptians. Trump’s rhetoric focuses on internal security and border protection, presenting himself as a strong leader who ensures US stability and supports allies in the Middle East, including Egypt while minimizing direct military intervention.

This approach finds support among Egyptian-Americans, who see it as support for Egypt’s stability and security. It reflects Trump’s unique vision of Egypt’s strategic role in the region.

The Egyptian-American community’s influence extends beyond voting. Members actively contribute to American discourse on Middle Eastern issues through think tanks and political lobbying. Prominent Egyptians participate in organizations and advocacy groups that work to strengthen US-Egypt relations, engaging with Congress and the White House to encourage policies that support Egypt’s stability and regional interests.

Despite their increasing influence, Egyptian-Americans face challenges in US politics, including discrimination and limited representation in political and media institutions. There is also a generational gap in priorities, with the first generation more focused on Egyptian identity and policies affecting the homeland, while younger generations emphasize integration, equality, and education.

As the US election draws closer, Egyptian-Americans aspire to have a greater role in guiding American policy toward Egypt. They are aware that their votes could be the decisive factor in this tight race and that they can influence candidates’ stances on the Middle East in ways that support the stability of their homeland.

Political analyst Dr. Tawfik Hamid highlighted that US-Egypt relations are deep and enduring, regardless of the outcome of the US presidential election. Hamid noted that if Kamala Harris wins, relations are likely to remain stable without significant changes. At the same time, Trump’s pragmatic approach could drive him to strengthen relations with Egypt, recognizing its geographical and political importance.

On the issues of concern to Egyptian-Americans in this election, Hamid pointed to two main topics: family values and the economy. Many Egyptian-Americans are critical of Harris’s support for LGBTQ+ rights and policies that allow minors to undergo gender transitions without parental consent, which is a source of deep concern for them. The second issue is economic stability, with Egyptian-Americans looking for policies that promote financial security and improve their quality of life.

Hamid believes that Trump may be the preferable choice for Egyptian-Americans regarding moral and economic values. His pragmatic approach led to significant economic improvements before the COVID-19 pandemic, and his opposition to LGBTQ+ policies increased his appeal among traditionalist Egyptian-Americans. On foreign policy, Hamid views Trump as a candidate who prefers practical solutions rather than prolonged conflicts, which could benefit the Palestinian issue.

Hamid further noted that the influence of Arab and Egyptian-American communities could be crucial despite their small numbers, especially if the election is close. When these communities consolidate support for a particular candidate, they can exert a decisive influence. He pointed out that the Muslim community in Michigan, for instance, is shifting towards Trump instead of Harris, adding weight to Trump’s position due to their alignment with his moral values and foreign policy stance.

Hamid also highlighted the growing political involvement of Egyptian-Americans, applauding the efforts of organizations that unify their voices and strengthen their influence. This may lead to the development of a lobbying power comparable to that of other political groups.

Regarding the balance between Egyptian and American identities, Hamid explained that Egyptian-Americans see it as an opportunity to foster mutual benefits for both countries. Each side can benefit from the strengths of the other. Hamid views this balance not as a conflict but as a way to support both sides’ interests and strengthen US-Egypt relations for the long term.