jordan pulse -

Dr. Ali Nahla Hiyasat

Arab media, including in Jordan, often celebrates and exalts certain Arab-American candidates expected to join former U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. But a critical question arises: what real value can these Arab-Americans bring to the pressing issues of the Arab world? Chiefly, can they influence U.S. policies on the Palestinian cause—the core of Arab consciousness? Given the entrenched U.S. bias towards Israel, is it realistic to expect Arab-Americans to significantly impact American stances on Arab issues?

Culture plays a decisive role in shaping an individual's beliefs and political behavior. For Arab-Americans, their upbringing in a distinctly American cultural environment naturally aligns their loyalties with the interests of the United States. Their priorities remain primarily American, often taking positions that may appear even stricter on certain issues than their non-Arab counterparts, to affirm their allegiance to U.S. policies.

Moreover, Arab media has yet to provide solid evidence that Trump entrusted any Arab-American with a consequential role in his administration. Even when individuals of Arab descent occupy certain posts, ultimate decision-making lies with the president, limiting their ability to influence U.S. policies meaningfully.

In essence, Arab media should temper its enthusiasm and avoid overestimating the significance of Arab-Americans in American politics. The U.S. political system is structured to ensure that no individual, regardless of their ethnic or cultural background, can surpass the president's directives. Decision-making remains firmly under the president’s control, while officials primarily serve as advisors or executors within the administration's broader policy framework.

This reality underscores the need for a more pragmatic perspective in Arab media discourse regarding Arab-Americans in U.S. politics.