We all know Donald Trump said and did a lot of racist, offensive, and Islamophobic things when he was president the first time round - and is promising to do so again if he wins a second term next week.
It seems, however, that he has not said or done enough to deter the endorsement of a growing minority of Muslim Americans, such as Imam Belal Alzuhairi of The Great Mosque in Hamtramck, Michigan.
“I never claimed that he is infallible,” Alzuhairi tells Mehdi. “I never claimed that he is a saint. I never gave him a blank check. I see him as a leader who, in our discussions, committed to supporting values that matter deeply in our community… We said these are the five points, he said I agree 100% with you.”
The imam not only stood on stage at a Trump rally in Michigan to announce his endorsement, in what became a viral online moment, but he also separately met with the Republican nominee – something the Harris campaign, reportedly, refused to do (though they have met with other Muslim and Arab groups in that key swing state).
“The other party [Democrats] does not have any time for us and does not have any regards for us as Muslims,” says Alzuhairi. “Now, they understand that… we're not in your pockets. I mean, we have alternatives.”
Mehdi, of course, pushed back on the idea that Trump can be trusted or considered “the peace candidate” or the candidate of “family values,” in the provocative words of Imam Alzuhairi.
You’ll have to watch the full interview above to hear how heated their discussion got!
This Imam is a dumbass. In any negotiation, any, first and foremost, one must ask who are they negotiating with. Someone reasonable? Honest? Trustworthy? If the answers are no, what’s the bloody point in negotiating with them? Bring this Imam back on your show in two years and ask him if the ‘five things’ negotiated on were honored. I’m willing to bet he’ll tuck tail and run in the opposite direction. He’s misguided at best.
Hey, lets not insult dumbasses, it would be an insult to them to bunch them with this moron.
I think this Imam and some of Muslim leaders were desperate to make changes for the situation which is to stop the genecide. They wanted someone who has power to listen to them. Trump camp took advantage of their desperation and conned them. He kept saying that Dems kept ignoring Muslim community but Trump took the time to talk to them. It is Dems fault to ignore the voice and doubling down on the wrong side.
I agree the dems are at fault for ignoring Arabs/Muslims/etc. However, regardless of desperation or whatever their motivation, endorsing trump is real dumb. Nothing gets better with trump back in the oval. Nothing. I'm not saying things are better with Harris there either, but one would have to be real naïve to believe anything gets better with trump.
Sure, I don’t disagree with you. Obviously, this Imam is very naive therefore he is clinging to whatever Trump camp “offered / agreed” blindly. We need to remember that many voters don’t follow politics like you and I.
Yeah, that's a very fair point and one I often lose sight of.
What an idiot Imam!!! It was painful to hear his stupid arguments..
I feel sorry for him, no brains.
He's an Imam like trump's a Christian
🎤 drop!
No. He IS an imam but he knows jack sh*t about real life and politics.
Thicker than two short posts.
Wow that was painful to watch. This guy seems like another religious grifter or he's just not that bright. You would have to be pretty naive to think Trump wouldn't lie just to get his endorsement.
With all due respect, he is naive and gullible, so not many will follow him his advice. I tentatively listened for his cogent explanation for endorsing and encouraging other Muslims to vote for trump. Nothing concrete.
This guy is an imam? lol
Most Imams are like that.
Me, either.
please don't do that. He and his group made a judgement error so give them slack for it.
This is not a judgement error this is idiotic error. Bet he is getting paid for this
This POS deserves NOTHING but ridicule and deportation to Israel, his obvious boss! I don’t want any morons anywhere they can do damage.
I will never pray in the front of him since I will be worried to have my back to him
K chill..lol he sounds desperate
the rapist is the one who represents family values? they just put statues of Trump to honor his lifelong sexual harassment! what's wrong with this Imam?
Another false profit. Religious leaders who think they can advance personally by endorsing the devil.
Whether “profit” was a typo or a pun, it works!
We should ask how much money this imam got from Trump or Elon for this endorsement
Good point.
His naivety SEEMED genuine — like a credulous deer, caught in gullibility-headlights — but some people coast through life, very comfortably, by hiding obscene corruption behind a façade of idiocy... because they can count on us all to "misunderestimate" them.
Nope. He's the real thing; dumb to the bone.
Fools like him are free, you just allow a photo-op.
I am disgusted….
Oh, wow. I think any of us here can sell a bridge to this goofball.
Or swampland in Florida
This guy is totally unhinged and illogical.
Money bought this so called Iman, that’s Trump’s MO. Plain and simple. Plus the fact there is another choice. The Green Party, who will benefit the ppl of Gaza who desperately need a voice in this Zionist government. Jill Stein is a candidate for all people!
Harris is definitely owned by AIPAC. Trump smooches with whoever kisses his A**. We have another choice! Green Party isn’t without faults but it isn’t owned by AIPAC!
all she is doing is splitting the vote. What is her stand on Palestine?
What can Green party do though? That is doing nothing to help Palestinians.
To be serious, the Green Party can be built on a local level, in your town or city, not at presidential campaign level which is only symbolic as a protest vote. I've done third party votes in the past but it's not appropriate here given the closeness of the vote. Besides Palestine the parties really differ alot on issues from Ukraine to economics. Remember how extreme Trump is... even most of his staff from his presidency are strongly against him.
Strongly agree
Green party is supporting Palestinian cause and they need 5% votes. We need to build an alternative to 2 party system. It will take time but we have to start now..
Stein has been at this for many cycles and there is no growth to the Green Party. It will never be a 3rd legit Party. She’s a spoiler.
The “need” for 5% isn’t even feasible, and this is a two-party system until we have ranked choice voting for president. Even if they got 5%, that’s still 0 electoral votes! Don’t be such a fool.
Please not at this election. Voting third party in swing states will only lead to a trump victory. Let Green Party build grass roots movements, not just show up every 4 years to skew the election in favor of trump. There’s hope with Dems. R are all wretched with Muslims and on Palestine. We will, Allah forbid, be stuck with 12 years of trump and Vance. Please, please all third party/JS supporters - please consider long term strategy. Not your present anger and frustration that will bring in a narcissist racist dictator. JS can’t do a thing to stop the genocide in Gaza. Please be practical, far sighted.
Hold your nose and vote KH to block Trump. Specially if you live in swing states. Please consider.
careful what you wish for - what does she stand for? America as a whole is owned by AIPAC
why making assumptions it is unfair he is entitled to his opinion.
at least they were given a platform to discuss their agenda
No platform, just an audience with The Second Coming of the Christ.
No agenda either, he has no understanding of how government works. He is willing to sell out the four points for some control over school curricula but that's the domain of the State, not the President.
Thanks Medi for this discussion which helped to know both sides of the arguments.
Let's sum it up: Conservative religious leader backs Trump because he hates the LGBTQ community, gives other easily refuted reasons to hide this. Not exactly a unicorn
Twenty buck the imam watches trans porn.
YAAASSSS. Thank you. Over and out.
Probably in his view, Trump is a man and can rape woman he wants. So sad.
Doing our best is voting for Jill Stein 💚💚💚💚💚voting our conscience, our morals
Really? So even if it hands the election to Trump you believe you’d be doing the right thing, even though Stein can’t win, and Trump intends to destroy all green initiatives, and give Israel even more free rein to destroy the Palestinians. Not to mention, take away all abortion and women’s reproductive rights, while turning this nation into an authoritarian kakistocracy.
You truly are dumb as a rock! Let’s see how it works out for you and the Palestinians when you get exactly what you wish for! You won’t be laughing then, And I’d bet my life’s fortune on it!
My god, there are definitely too many dumbass’s that exist in this world, who’s only purpose in life is to serve as a warning to others!
Both parties are Evil , if we vote green, we get to make a change, even if it’s a slight chance this time, it will be better for the future of our generations.
Don’t you get it? There won’t be another time! You must be a bot, because no one is this dumb.
We’ll see who’s dumb
We see! You must be paid by Israel!
I’m responding to the dude Robert! Calling people voting for J strong dumb ! So I responded we’ll see who’s the dumb one ! 🤷🏻♀️
Oh I’m replying to Robert Jaffee’s comment above ! The dude calling everyone voting green dumb ! I’m pro Palestinian 109%
How do we know you're not the Zionist?
I was agteeing to Amina’s msg above and we got attacked by RJ 👆🏻see comments lol 🙅🏻♀️
Agreeing**
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
She is just splitting the vote just as she did in 2016. What is her position on Palestine?
Probably not much different than Biden, although it’s hard to know. What someone says out of office, never quite aligns with their expectations, especially when they get the Presidential Daily Brief, and they know the true extent of what’s really happening in the region by all interested parties….:)
Please not at this election. Voting third party in swing states will only lead to a trump victory. Let Green Party build grass roots movements, not just show up every 4 years to skew the election in favor of trump. There’s hope with Dems. R are all wretched with Muslims and on Palestine. We will, Allah forbid, be stuck with 12 years of trump and Vance. Please, please all third party/JS supporters - please consider long term strategy. Not your present anger and frustration that will bring in a narcissist racist dictator. JS can’t do a thing to stop the genocide in Gaza. Please be practical, far sighted.
Hold your nose and vote KH to block Trump. Specially if you live in swing states. Please consider.
This Imam is extremely ill informed and naive and should not represent his community. I as Muslim will vote for Jill Stein. She is the only candidate that makes sense when it comes to Palestine. Hopefully she gets 5% of the total votes across US so a 3rd part is officially created with Federal and state funded and the 2 party monopoly will be over.
She’ll never even come close to 5%. I don’t see how people can fool themselves so badly.
Voting for Trump or Harris is where Muslims are fooling themselves badly. Both have a track record for their hate of us.
I do not support the Imam’s position, nor do I agree with your recent calls for supporting the Democratic Party (as shared in previous shows). Given the actions taken by the Democrats in Gaza, my conscience does not permit me to endorse them, as it would feel like supporting policies that have caused immense suffering and loss of life among Muslims. Similarly, based on his track record, I believe Trump’s rhetoric and potential policies could be even more damaging, which makes supporting him equally unfeasible for me.
As a Muslim, I cannot, in good faith, align myself with either major party. For this reason, my choice would be to support the Green Party, led by Jill Stein, or to abstain from voting altogether.
Best regards,
Abdifatah Gaal
Ok, if Trump wins, be ready for deportation. Stein is a shill for Putin and Trump. Her ties to Russia are deep. You can look it up. You are being duped.
Well said!
This guy is an absolute IDIOT!
Break the corrupt two-party system. RepubliCONS and DemocRATS are two evil sides of the same coin.
Please DO NOT vote for Republican Trump or Democrat Harris. Holy scriptures urge us to do the right thing, not choose the lesser of two evils. God controls the outcome. We must vote a third-party candidate like Jill Stein even if it results in Trump's win. He may win anyways, kamala may lose like Hillary. America is crumbling because both parties are enslaved to corporate donors, silencing public opinion, suppressing free speech on college campuses, supporting Israel's Genocide, and sending billions overseas for destruction instead of using the same for improving our daily lives, our domestic needs like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. We are having issues because we are short-sighted and want immediate results. Change doesn't happen overnight. Moses didn't freed Israelites overnight. It took over 200 years of enslavement and oppression before Moses led them to freedom. We must pave the way for future now by breaking the corrupt two-party system.
Imagine Jill Stein with 36%, Republicans/Democrats 32% each, making Jill win all electoral votes. This can happen only if we begin the change now and bring Jill from 2% to winning presidency. The young generation is fed-up with corrupt two-party system and chances look bright for America in future with 3rd party.
*"Verily, GOD will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves." - Q.13:11*
*GOD will test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.Q.2-155*
what good will that do? She won't win and what is her position on Palestine? All she is doing is splitting the vote and giving you Trumoty Dumpty yet again just as she did in 2016. Enjoy the internment camp as you must be an immigrant which he will send you all to
Anyone who uses the word “verily” can go f*** themselves. “Holy” anything has no place in law (despite the protestations of Zionists).
I don’t give a shit about gods. Policy and strategy are all that matters. Republicans will be sure this is the last valid election if they win. I’ve always voted for the party that appoints the best judges, since they determine most of our legal actions in the absence of a functioning congress.
If you make the entire planet suffer (and it will under Trump, as promised) you will be guilty of unforgivable crimes. No god will save you.
GOD controls the universe. We simply accept the divine decree. Do the things you fear, Fear of death is certain.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIfZUJhu85E
French asks Omar Mukhtar, why are you fighting knowing that you will not win the large army with handful of people.
Omar replied, *I am not fighting to win, I am fighting for the right to defend. We will fight till we die.*
If you are voting to win, then you have lost. If you are fighting for the Right, you always win, even if you die fighting.
Those Muslims who are supporting Trump are ordered by MBS and MBZ TO DO SO
MBZ and MBS are Trump’ s goons and supporters
MBZ already normalized relations with the zionist occupation israhell and MBS is thriving to do so as a zionist himself and implement the Abrahamic accord !
So the best choice for these two maniacs is trump .
Yemenis in Michigan aren’t Houthi’s supporters , rather UAE AND KSA supporters told to do support Trump
This makes most sense. Could you expand on that? Genuinely curious.
That's daft. You are saying any Muslim who votes for Trump is being so ordered by MBS and MBZ? Cool your imagination a little.
This "Imam" walks and talks like a MAGA plant.
No. He's just an idiot with an ego larger than he is.
hope his community are getting ready to go to internment camps as Trumpty Dumpty has promised immigrants. Since when has his word ever been kept?
The Democrats are real idiots to ignore the Muslim community. I can understand the imam's position because he's rightly offended with Harris whose ignoring of Muslims is foul and very stupid. Not having a Palestinian speaker at the convention was outrageous. But Trump's propensity for lying up one side of his head and down the other won't help Muslims either. It seems that the imam felt he was getting nothing from the dems, so he might as well try the trumpists. But Trump and his trusties think politics is a game where you can say anything (as Vance admitted re Springfield) if it furthers your interests in the moment. Trump's a low-class entertainer, who'll say anything to get applause and forget it moments later.
Totally. Trump at least claimed he would end the conflict in the Middle East. Some people are desperate for any hope and it's sickening to see people pinning their hopes on Trump... But this is where we are because the Democratic party and Harris are held hostage by Zionist money.
This Imam is looking out for his own interests not caring one single iota for Yeminis or Palestinians. Shameful!
dems are definitely captured monetarily and ideologically by the jewish lobby, but the republicans take in millions from them too. look it up. trump was personally given 100 million by miriam adelson a few months ago.
difference is dems are easier to fight because they actually have muslims in their party and others who don’t support the war.
this is why i voted democrat already. there are only two options and the weaker enemy is the democrats. this is why i think everyone should
vote for them, but i understand why people don’t. full disclosure i am a lebanese/italian american and i have a personal interest in the middle east, beyond basic human empathy and understanding.
If Trump wins, Palestinians and Muslims will get their pound of flesh against a guy who has been trying to diligently to end this war in Gaza. If fully understood the Palestinian outrage, but we don’t control Israel, and refusing to send weapons would be counter productive to the nation’s interests regardless of whether it’s right or wrong.
Our security and national interests in the region, outweigh any consideration of citizen casualties. We killed over 500k Iraqi civilians, so what makes you think Israel killing 40k is going to move the needle one bit?
And if Trump wins, it will not only be a Pyrrhic victory for Palestinians, it will be the beginning of the end for a Palestinian state. As well as a new beginning of pain for the Palestinian people. Trump will allow Israel to continue its dominance and destruction of the occupied territories, as well as its war in Lebanon. Bottom line, it can get exponentially worse!
Let me make this clear, I support a two state solution and Palestinian rights. If Trump wins because of Muslims in swing states, then it’s over for all of us. There will not be another fair election in the future. Elections are currently built to give republicans an unfair electoral college advantage. Now, it’s game over!
And in the next Trump administration, there won’t be any guardrails. Republicans are ready to destroy this nation and rebuild it into a White Christian Nationalist theocracy. This time their Muslim Ban will work. This time , they will build detention camps, and Americans and dissenters will be arrested during all the chaos and possibly disappeared for good.
In other words, I suggest that everyone fully understand what’s at stake, and give the election and the possible consequences of this election, true consideration. And forget having buyers remorse when all is said and done; if only because no remedy will ever exist again to rectify the situation! Let that sink in!…:)
If Democrats hand this election to trump — which they're trying their hardest to do — it will NOT be "because of Muslims," and CERTAINLY not Palestinians. (Although racist Democrats will definitely blame them.)
The REAL fault will lay with the Democratic leadership. They're more dedicated to committing genocide in the Middle East, than they are to safety, security, and democracy in the US. Kamala made a conscious choice to refuse to acknowledge the fact that genocide is bad, knowing full well that her genocidal intransigence would make it impossible for some people to vote for her.
As far as which VOTING DEMOGRAPHIC will be responsible for voting trump into power, that's WHITE VOTERS; not ONE credulous imam, and the tiny segment of the Muslim-American population who might actually vote for trump, rather than vote against BOTH of them.
+
Think about your fvcking TONE. When's the last time someone asked YOU to vote for the vice-president of the white-supremacist regime that was committing genocide against your relatives... and then called you "stupid" for refusing... and then claimed it would be YOUR FAULT if WHITE VOTERS succeeded in voting the OTHER genocidal white-supremacist monsters into power?
Blue & Red are not the same, and trump is a cancer on a cancer, but Blue & Red ARE both COMPLETELY INDEFENSIBLE. And so are their supporters: There isn't enough vomit in the world to adequately react to someone referring to Joe Biden (or Kamala Harris) as, "a guy who has been trying to diligently to end this war in Gaza."
I think most people don’t really understand the Middle East, American foreign policy or what’s in America’s best interests. We’ve certainly never had a principled foreign policy. We make the same mistake most people do when thinking about self-interest - we only consider short-term goals and fail to view American interests as representative of the interest of American citizens and connected to the interests of the citizens in every other country. This makes sense. Humans aren’t wired to think about the long term or think about other people- especially under stressful conditions or when people feel like they’re under threat (which is when most foreign policy decisions are made).
Most people also don’t understand the psychological aspects of persuasion. If people did not arrive at a belief using logic, then no amount of logic will be able to persuade them out of that belief. This also makes sense. Human brains are wired in a way that prioritizes emotion over reason - especially under stressful conditions or when they feel like they’re under threat. That’s when the higher brain centers stop functioning and we rely on the amygdala or the reflexive “lizard brain”.
This is why it’s impossible to change someone’s mind if you approach them with scorn or condescension. And that’s really, really hard to do when they you think they have beliefs that seem naive or ignorant or irrational. Most people and pundits and politicians are really bad at understanding this.
Donald Trump’s lizard brain, on the other hand, instinctively understands this. That’s why half the country is not only supporting him, but doing so enthusiastically.
If Trump wins, it'll be because you stood on the sidelines and did nothing to stop the genocide.
No consideration for civilian casualties? Then don't cry if in the future the tables turn against you.
Omar, we are trying every day to end this monstrosity of a war, we just don’t have the power to end this in your timeline. So go ahead, throw the baby out with the bathwater, and see if your prospects improve!
That said, a Trump win won’t be bad for me, I’m a single white Jew with no kids, who has money and is essentially retired in my 50’s. I have no stake in this game! However, If revenge is what you seek and need, then understand that it only gets worse for you and everyone else you care about, because if Trump is re-elected, Netanyahu will get the President he’s been wanting, and the reason he’s been refusing to end the war to begin with.
Can’t you see, he’s been stringing all of us along the entire time. There was never going to be a cease fire; It’s not in Netanyahu’s interests. Remember, he’s on trial too; his PM-ship is his lifeline. Not to mention, he and his cabal of messianic Jews currently in power, are just as extreme, violent and evil as Hamas! So I’m pretty sure how this plays out when Trump comes back to power.
And you’ll have no one else to blame but yourselves: the self righteous, that will gladly hand power to a sadistic, authoritarian kleptocrat with no moral compass, just to exact your pound of flesh! Outstanding!
Additionally, the more you blame Biden, the better the chances you’ll do exactly what Netanyahu was counting on: helping Trump win, and allowing Israel to unleash its true strength on every enemy it has in the Middle East!
So please truly consider the decision you’re about to make, and choose wisely. But don’t think for a minute that you’re hurting me, or most people like me who sympathize with the Palestinians, but honestly have no stake in this game; we’ll survive. We’ll have no more power to effect change or help marginalized groups and minorities who are constantly under attack, but as long as we stay silent, they won’t come for us.
That said, it’s not me who’s on the menu; it’s people like you!
Self righteous for condemning Biden/Harris for a genocide? If that's what that is, then yes I'll accept that.
I already voted for Stein and couldn't ever vote for someone like Trump. The Democrats are paying a price for their moral bankruptcy.
I'm not worried, Trump can't do worse to me than what the Israeli state you're supporting is doing to the Palestinians.
Trump is not better for the Palestinians. Do as you wish, but he is not better for anyone.
I didn't say Trump is better, but I voted for Stein since Harris decided genocide was okay. If Trump wins and destroys the country, then we all probably deserved it. If you've been watching the live streamed horrors out of Gaza over the last year then you may know what I'm talking about.
Sorry to be grim, I hope we will survive another Trump presidency. If we do then the Democrats better get their act together and get a true pro-peace candidate in 2028. As I said I accept my fate whatever it may be as someone complicit in the genocide.
Sorry to hear it. Yet, you are sadly mistaken if you think it can’t get worse. It can get exponentially worse, and I guarantee, it will! What most Americans don’t understand is that they think the violence and authoritarianism we see in other places of the world can’t come here. But it can, in fact it has. It’s been a quiet takeover that’s been taking place for decades. And this election will be the final battle. They will put three more judges on the SC and secure a fascist court for the next 50 years. And that’s the least of it, but important since the SC gets to decide what is and isn’t constitutional: like mass deportations and Muslim bans!
Just remember, you were warned!
Refusing to send 2000lb bombs to carpet bomb Gaza would be counter productive, you said. Just remember that this sin is going to haunt us all.
Sure Robert, there's a possibility of Jews and Muslims getting rounded up in concentration camps here and Israel collapsing in the future. If that happens, remember your lack of concern of civilian casualties a.k.a genocide 'over there'.
I spoke out and am still speaking out to stop sending weapons to Israel while you sit here and defend what they're doing. I'll accept my fate whatever it may be.
How naive! You think fascism means coming for the Jews. No, it doesn’t. It means nationalism, authoritarianism, xenophobia. This time Jews aren’t on the menu, at least not yet. You forget, the biggest supporters for Israel in the US aren’t the Jews; it’s the evangelicals. The same white Protestant nationalists, who will be taking over this country.
I’ll be long gone before they come for the Jews. And actually, long gone from America if Trump wins. Good luck though!
I agree 100% as a person of color. Only don't forget, It might take some time, but the haters will eventually come for us all, not withstanding Jews.
I agree but disagree with your statement about Genocide Joe being unable to stop the genocide that HE pays for and HE supplies. He most certainly CAN tell Israel that he will stop all weapons supplies in two days unless the genocide stops and simultaneously, he can position US assets to protect Israel in case some under-armed idiot leader in the M-EE decides to attack.
Sadly, I agree that we don't care about 40,000 or even 1,000,000 dead Palestinians.
"The Washington Post, meanwhile, quoted informed sources on 25 October as saying that Trump told Netanyahu in a recent phone call, “Do what you have to do” regarding Hamas and the Lebanese Hezbollah." https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20241031-trump-asked-netanyahu-to-stop-attacks-on-gaza-until-he-takes-office/
The Peace Candidate!
So depressing.
While we’re all in agreement that trusting Donald Trump is a complete failure of a strategy, all of the comments insulting Imam personally is not cool. Imam clearly has good intentions and is feeling immense pain and anxiety right now as a Muslim American citizen. That’s a feeling that, with my privilege, I don’t know. I doubt that I would be able to be a calculated, clear-headed strategist if I were in his shoes. Let’s try to have a little more empathy and respect for folks, fellow comment section inhabitants.
Agree with you Cam, I think we should not make it personal. The Imam and his team made a decision. This doesn't make them less of a muslim or how people are acting or messaging against them. Having said that Imam should also understand that there will be feedback for his actions and should not try to over defend himself so much. Accept the error in judgement an move on.
Nope!
Yes, let’s definitely be nice to the fascist supporter. Let’s send him flowers!
Here is an Imam momentarily thrust into the limelight because he is a leading Moslem in a small town in a swing state, which happens to be important to both parties for the next few days. He became all starry eyed when Trump asked for a meeting and bought the promises of a guy whose record of keeping his word through his entire business and political career leaves no room for doubt that he dishes out promises and solemn undertakings like confetti and more often than not rats on them without batting an eyelid. I can well understand Muslims' disgust, which I share, with Biden and Harris over their administration's blanket support for Israel and hence their blatant complicity in the Gazan genocide. Also given the fact that Harris has shunned any contact with the Muslim communities in the swing states, she certainly doesn't deserve to win these elections but the problem is that as bad as she may be, Trump, and this we know from past experience and from what he openly says, would be 10X worse for Palestinians, for Muslims and for Americans. Harris is the lesser of two manifest evils and my feeling is, FWIW, that if she gets in she will do more to rein in the Israeli killing machine than Trump will.
I'm an Arab Muslim American. I voted for Stein (early voter), and yes I know Trump is using these imams to win votes and can't be trusted. But who is to blame for this? Harris and the Democrats who turned their back on all of us including this Imam.
If I was sure Trump would end the genocide sooner than Harris I would have voted for him too, because my comfort and security is less important to me than ending the genocide we are complicit in.
I respect your honesty!
I am not supporting Trump but the fact that Harris wasn’t willing to stand next to a Muslim is shameful and she is going to lose many votes because of this. The Democratic Party is is just a puppet of AIPAC.
Shameful. I get the anger at Harris, but voting for the guy responsible for the "Muslim Ban" is something no Muslim should ever even consider.
Waste of time arguing with this man. As an aside, the length that campaigning takes in the States (years) is bloody insane. What's worse the rest of the world is subjected to this three ring circus every 4 years. Who can ever take this seriously. Two useless candidates, the shadows behind them run everything and we all know how this game is run.
This Iman desperately wants peace but blinded by the facts that are in front of us all. All I can do is pray and vote! Mehdi, another great interview. I love you brother 💙
I feel like the Imam is looking out for himself and maybe his community. But himself first. AIPAC is in both political parties pockets not just the Dems. You didn't talk to me so let me go talk to the most obvious Muslim hater and lets not forget a billion dollars from Adelson to Trump, please give me a break- really- makes no sense
One point is somewhat valid--that Democrats need to know we're not going to support the party no matter what. I wouldn't vote for Trump but I do get the argument.
Democrats need to pay much more attention to Muslim opinion. That said, MAGA Republicans have shown that they believe Muslims are less than fully human and pose a grave danger to American society. Democrats need to respect you; modern Republicans want to expel you. That's a huge difference.
Imam? 🙄
Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are both serial liars and genocide enablers, so anyone who claims to be anti-genocide/anti-Zionist should vote against the rotten Republicans and the duplicitous Democrats. In other words, they’ll say anything to get elected.
Stein/Ware 💚🇵🇸🇱🇧🕊️✊🏾
NOT IN MY MANE IMAM
name
Please respect the Imam. We should all agree that all politicians promise and say things but don’t implement or work for it 100%. Just one statement from Harris ‘working round the clock to get a ceasefire in Gaza’ made over two months ago and check where we are now. Mehdi, you seem to be obsessed with Trump for what he says and did in the past but not the actions of Democratic Presidents.
He could have chosen Jill Stein rather than the criminal Trump.
Tatiana, he is out for himself. Don't you think?
Imam, this was a trainwreck. Vote 3rd party, don't endorse Harris or Trump.
Wow, In Arab and Muslim history throughout we do find people like this gentleman doing deals with looks good but are really stinky for the whole community.
As much as I would not have done this deal with DJT, I would pray that I am wrong and this person is right and DJT becomes what this gentleman is hoping.
DJT is the biggest Islamophobe in this country and would on day one institute a total Muslim Ban and this time the SCOTUS would side with him. He would also start the deportation of many legal immigrants.
Harris is bad for Arabs/Muslims/Gaza/Palestine but DJT is worse.
Probably worse for Arab/Muslim Americans but even Mehdi seems to realize the same can't be said for Gaza/Palestine.
Any "worse" if that was possible would probably cause Israel to collapse sooner due to international and internal backlash (as an apartheid state many believe this is inevitable and only a matter of time), and in that sense it would be better to end prolonged suffering of the Palestinians.
Last line is pretty much it.
This man doesn't seem to realise there is a difference between choosing to vote one way or another versus choosing to "endorse" a candidate, by which he's actively saying he's worth voting for. We know neither Harris or Trump is worth voting for, in particular when it comes to Gaza/Palestine.
Imam Belal Alzuhairi also does not seem to understand that when Mehdi questions his endorsement of Trump, it does not mean that Mehdi endorses Harris, because he clearly doesn't...
I have a bridge in San Francisco that I would like to sell to Imam Bilal!
Of all the reputable Imams in America he and the others Imams on stage were the only ones they could find at this late stage to endorse Trump. That in itself is blessing. As he ages and matures, he will come to regret this moment in his life. I feel bad for this young man who has been duped. Some of the brothers need to mentor him. Placing people in leadership positions before they’re ready is one of many mistakes people make with respect to selecting a leader.
Well put. I like your reasoning. Thank you for pointing out that there is a blessing to be had because Trump could not have fooled any thinking caring human being. Everything is so negative, but this just might be a very big positive. Thanks Robin
I hope, he got the bag at least...
lol. would be nice. but yeah right, trump probably made him pay to meet with him. trump ain’t giving anyone, let alone a muslim, his dollars.
Yeah, what queerphobia does to a man, I guess.. I just can not understand why he would do such a thing!
It is embarrassing, but worse still, a betrayal to all those who died, lost homes and livelihoods and continue to suffer and be in danger in the Middle East - another foolish religious fanatic fooled by DJT. Shame
This is ridiculous, clearly this imam has either been bought or is incredibly naive or doesn’t have any brain cells left. How disgusting to try and influence his congregation to vote for that monster
I didn't know that even in US they have dumb imams, who clearly don't have the ability to analyse and think properly
The Imam's style of argument is indistinguishable from that of an Israeli cabinet member, and that scares me.
Some people don't think good and vote out of frustration against another candidate. That's this whole election. This person don't think good
he introduced a Muslim ban in 2016 - what part of this does this Imam not understand?
The part that Trump introduced a Muslim ban and I would not dignify this moron with the title "Imam"
Break the corrupt two-party system. RepubliCONS and DemocRATS are two evil sides of the same coin.
Please DO NOT vote for Republican Trump or Democrat Harris. Holy scriptures urge us to do the right thing, not choose the lesser of two evils. God controls the outcome. We must vote a third-party candidate like Jill Stein even if it results in Trump's win. He may win anyways, kamala may lose like Hillary. America is crumbling because both parties are enslaved to corporate donors, silencing public opinion, suppressing free speech on college campuses, supporting Israel's Genocide, and sending billions overseas for destruction instead of using the same for improving our daily lives, our domestic needs like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. We are having issues because we are short-sighted and want immediate results. Change doesn't happen overnight. Moses didn't freed Israelites overnight. It took over 200 years of enslavement and oppression before Moses led them to freedom. We must pave the way for future now by breaking the corrupt two-party system.
Imagine Jill Stein with 36%, Republicans/Democrats 32% each, making Jill win all electoral votes. This can happen only if we begin the change now and bring Jill from 2% to winning presidency. The young generation is fed-up with corrupt two-party system and chances look bright for America in future with 3rd party.
*"Verily, GOD will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves." - Q.13:11*
*GOD will test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.Q.2-155*
I'm not crazy about Stein, and I don't like the fact that she doesn't do anything until a major election. I'm not certain that she is not entangled with Putin. I'm not going to give a vote to someone who clearly can't win and who only shows up to make a statement every four years.
I love Cornel West. Nobody talks about him. I would give a vote to him quicker than Stein.
He has to be naive if he trust 45.
Why do you cut him off so much? I want to hear what he has to say? I love you Mehdi, but you must differentiate an interview with debate. You come off as obnoxious in interviews. Slow down and let us hear him! We know your view.
I agree, I find it annoying. He goes in guns blazing and instead of having an interview rushes all of his guests and has them tripping over their own words trying to make their point before they are interrupted again. It makes me anxious, I don’t know if I’ll subscribe next year, I need pauses and thoughts being spoken. I was genuinely curious what this Imam had to say, but it was just Mehdi railroading another guest.
Trump’s political strategy is often seen as a show, but it’s one that resonates with specific demographics, and that’s where his real skill lies. He taps into the frustrations of many, including those who feel disconnected from mainstream politics. While some see it as pandering, there’s no denying his ability to secure votes by reaching groups often overlooked. Whether you agree with his policies or not, his approach to mobilizing a broad spectrum of supporters has been effective and demonstrates a keen understanding of political influence. It’s a unique, if polarizing, approach to winning voter support.
I was listening to Ezra Klein's interview with Zadie Smith about her book "The Fraud" and how disenfranchised and oppressed underclasses will take a fundamentally illogical position against their own interests in order to spite the system that they feel doesn't listen and include them. Maybe that's the case here.
Mehdi you have set the Zeteo community of fire with this interview. You are amazing. Don't stop outing these folks. Its a must for this community and for good Journalism.
Red lines are drawn-- in blood on both sides. True, the numbers are disproportionate. They're hard to forget/forgive. To lose a loved one is profoundly painful. To lose many is overwhelming beyond words. Many have lost also homes--ancestral homes, their freedom, tranquillity and so much more. Many Arab-Americans have lost relatives. Again, this is profoundly painful and unjust. Acknowledging this, offering humbly my heartfelt condolences, I beg of our good Arab brothers/sisters to NOT VOTE FOR TRUMP. He's the same as Netanyahu--perhaps even worse. Agreed, Harris has made her mistakes, but she's far better Trump. I agree with Mehdi Hasan. Please vote for Harris, then we'll all be able to open a true dialogue with her once she's firmly in the WH. We'll put things on a more just course and honor the dead by knowing their children and grandchildren are working towards peace and regaining their land and dignity. Respectful prayers for you all.
My heartfelt feelings if you have lost loved ones and/or friends in Gaza, or the West Bank, or Lebanon.💔
So they want peace and to fight Islamophobia and went to endorse the guy who has said the genocide isn't going hard enough and the most openly Islamophobia President in modern times? (and that's a very low bar) I mean he's just the latest in those who join the "Leopards Eating People's Faces" party. How long till they realize their faces will be eaten first.
Also I'm sure Trump wants peace in the Middle East, once the genocide is complete, that's how he sees it. It's like this guy just completely ignored literally everything Trump has ever said and done, it's fucking crazy.
So what’s Trump’s definition of having “ PEACE” in Gaza ??? After the genocide is over and no more Palestinians exist on the ground, will peace be implemented ??? What a vague point ?
How does a twat like this Imam become a 'community leader' he's fucking useless. He's incoherent doesn't listen, and just keeps talking gibberish over Mehdi's questions.
His ossified brain seems to think it's a choice between Harris or Trump.
I think the arsehole must have been starstruck meeting the orange prick.
I think the "star struck" is SO true!
I believe what the imam did was wrong however, it’s a little confusing for Muslims
if Muslims voted for Jill and democrats won we are saying muslim and Arab vote doesn’t mean anything and if trump won it could mean that we punished democrats but we will have a dark 4 years and the Middle East will explode even more
If there is a chance that Jill will win then I am all for it but that’s not possible
Very confusing times choosing either Harris her hands filled with blood or trump the islamophob or Jill that will lose for sure
I hear you, but I'd rather vote Harris, and keep the pressure on. A Trump vote is shooting oneself in the foot, and voting Stein just takes vote from Harris, which will make the MAGA people thrilled. At some point, people will make a decision.
Mehdi needs to understand that, for Trump, it’s all about the show. In American society, where many people may not closely follow politics, leaders like Trump know they need to put on an impactful performance to secure votes—even if that means using divisive narratives like Islamophobia. It’s not necessarily about personal beliefs; it's about appealing to a certain voter base. We see a similar pattern in other places, like Pakistan, where votes are sometimes bought with basic needs. In the end, it’s a reminder that, worldwide, some leaders prioritize the optics over genuine change, often capitalizing on voter sentiment to stay in power.
Amen!
what a staggering imbecile
Fascinating interview. The Imam is very naive, but it does show the value of a candidate reaching out to a group unlikely to support him or her, listening, and agreeing on the group's key points. Mehdi is spot on that Trump lied to get the Imams' support and this Imam will be very disappointed with the outcomes of another (God forbid) Trump presidency.
Wow! There are people who will still believe Trump after he tells lie after lie after lie. You've even shown him a clip of Trump speaking. I'm not sure if this Imam is interested in Gaza, I think he has some other very conservative views and that is why he likes Trump. He is not for the greater good. Maybe Trump will let his followers stay, but he cares nothing for Gaza or other Muslims in American. BTW and also Yemen. Oh Lord...next week can't come fast enough. This is such a nightmare. Thanks Mehdi.
Amen. 5 more days🤦♀️
I was thinking of turning off Imams mic even though Im watching a recorded session. Kudos to Mehdi for putting up with folks every day.
I seems to me like he's struggling. I could be wrong, but there's points during the interview where he clearly can't come up with a defense or justification. I don't know if this is an example of desperation, or if he's getting some incentive from Trump's campaign.
If Fascism is coming to America -and I think it already has -it’s because of stupid People like this Guy
sadly this imam and his colleagues are being manipulated but don't understand that
I’m a white woman, not a Muslim, and I zealously abhor Trump. I’m also furious with Biden and Harris over Gaza Congo Sudan etc.
What I heard the Imam saying was that he is using his platform to assert his power and endorse Trump; he did this to punish the Harris campaign for ignoring the Muslim community (as he understands them). Trump will absolutely NOT honour his word, of course, but some people would rather feel heard and powerful than to feel ignored. The Imam is also so obviously bias in the patriarchy, bias against queer and non devout folks, bias toward his own communities of Muslim people. He has shown that he is not positioned to care for the community at large, but instead will sell out for his own narrative of safety and power however misguided.
Mehdi you may as well have talked to a wall. It just amazes me as to how clueless this guy is. You can see quite clearly he doesn't understand what voting for Trump means, has given Trump a pass on all the things he said in the past and will not accept that he has done anything wrong.
Mehdi,
I was so disappointed and frustrated and angry that you were no longer on MSNBC. I always thought your show took journalism a step further. Having been to Israel and having the privilege of talking with Palestinian Muslims changed my life, and I will always be grateful. Now that you have this new platform, your show is more exciting than ever. Being a paid subscriber is one of the better decisions I’ve made during this election circus. Thank you.
What a frustrating interview, thank you Mehdi for exposing the “imam’s” hypocrisy.
We are at a crucial juncture where our values and principles are being tested. It is essential for our leaders, especially those in influential positions, to remain vigilant and not be swayed by empty promises or misleading narratives. Our strength lies in our unwavering commitment to the values derived from Ghadeer! This steadfastness is what sets us apart and ensures that we remain true to our principles and heritage.
Recently, there have been concerning endorsements that do not align with our community's values. It is vital to challenge these narratives and ensure that we are well-informed. We must remain vigilant and critical of those who seek to misguide us.
We are grateful for the efforts of individuals, including our family members, community leaders, and influential seniors, who continue to educate and shed light on these important issues. Mehdi Hasan's recent discussion with Imam Belal Alzuhairi of The Great Mosque in Hamtramck, Michigan, is a prime example of this. Mehdi's challenge on the moral values part was particularly amazing and much needed. His dedication to truth and clarity is invaluable and helps us stay grounded in our values and principles.
That was painful to watch. Mehdi, that imam, unfortunately, was a very poor representative of a very straightforward stance, which is that a vote for Donald Trump is a means of punishing the democrats for their taking Muslims for granted. You yourself have echoed this stance many times. And yet you beat this poor guy up over it? You have to keep in mind that what type of Muslim leader would actually endorse trump...it's not going to be creme de la creme of our community...it's the simple and foolish, and that's what you saw. And by they way, if you didn't notice, that Imam may have even supported the bombing of Houthis in Yemen (his comment that 90% against Houthis), which says something about his nature...maybe a little sinister. One complaint though about your questioning was your comparing what the Democrats HAVE DONE with what Trump the candidate says...you know better.
Right, Trump talks trash but didn't start any wars. He has a rotten personal life and history but he didn't start any wars. He claims he would end the war while Biden/Harris are giving Israel all the rope it needs to hang itself and America in a prolonged new war.
I want to be clear....like most users of Zeteo, I think Trump is despicable. I wouldn't vote for him. My point is the Imam did a poor job of representing a position, which many others could have done a better job. So in the end we didn't get a very good interview, with purpose, other than making this Imam look like a fool, which makes Muslims look like fools. Personally, I'm of the view that Kamala is the safer of the evils, but Trump is the more unpredictable. For example, I can see Trump stopping the genocide to gain favor with rich gulf nations for his personal interests...or feeling insulted by Netanyahu and stopping aid. But he can just as well let Israel reoccupy Gaza, deport millions of Palestinians, support the revoking of citizenship of Palestinian Citizens of Israel....on and on. So the question is, do you want "safe" or unpredictable (towards good or evil)? I pick safe only because I think Israel has already lost in the long term, and using Islam as my guide, speaking strictly as an individual, this is where patience (sabr) and humbleness come into play...give time for Israel to face the consequences of their having been exposed for who they are, and be humble as to not let the offense of how the Democrats have treated Muslims cloud your judgement.
I mostly agree with you, but as I said in other comments I can't see anybody being able to do worse to the Palestinians than what Harris has committed to do. If she loses because of that, she has herself to blame and we all are collectively to blame for this genocide happening on our watch
It can be worse...much worse. And Kamala will likely be better than Biden, mainly because she's not a Christian Zionist, and she's African American. Specifically with regards to the latter point, African Americans can have influence over her, and they are for the most part Pro-Palestinian...particularly the intellectuals amongst them. As you may know, Ta-Nehisi Coates latest book The Message takes on the Palestinian issue in a powerful way...and people like him do have influence with left-leaning African American politicians. Also, same as Trump, what she says now is all about election strategy, not about her beliefs...she's not Biden, and while we may "fell better" if she distanced herself from him, it's more important (if she is truly more Pro-Palestinian) to get elected and THEN make policy changes.
Didn't start any wars? I'm not so sure. We know Trump will happily give away classified information to make himself feel powerful, no flattery necessary. And who the hell knows what was said in those secret conversations with Putin.
Which war did he start? Trump is a scoundrel and I feel these Imams have compromised their dignity on false hopes, but I cannot blame them for it, I entirely blame Harris and the DNC for this sad spectacle.
Imam is trying to do what he can for his community. If Trump invites him and other Imams to meet, they are obligated by their perceived duties to their communities to meet with Trump.
What Imam is missing is that Imam is chalking Trump's promises up to "politics," while Trump cannot open his mouth or move his lips without lying. All Trump has to do is neutralize the Islamic community in key voting areas, to gain the power he seeks. All Trump has to do, is do it ONCE. Imam should realize that Mehdi is trying to forewarn Imam about the slime-bucket he is dealing with: It's not a matter of agreeing with everything, or just some things Trump says, or some of the things he promises. Trump is completely transactional, and as soon as he has gained their votes, or neutralized their non-vote, he will throw them away like a ladder he has climbed and no longer needs.
And then, what're they gonna do? Their communities will be up the creek, no paddle, leaky boat, crocodiles, rocks, and waterfalls ahead...
Look up "delusional" and this Imam's photo will pop up.
What an apologist! How dare he speak for all Muslims?!
2 options were NOT « agreed » at all
4 options
Dont vote
Stein
Democrat
Republican
Fool to debate the best debater on the planet!
Gullible
Give us the 5 f’ing points
Naïve not the word really!!
What options we have except these two sides?
Jill Stein
she was responsible for splitting the vote in 2016 and that's how you got Trumpty Dumpty first time round - what does she offer? Nothing
"responsible for..."? Voters are responsible for voting the way they do, still.
Until we get rid of FPTP and the Electoral College, voting for 3rd parties in swing states effectively helps the person who is further away ideologically (in this case, presumably Trump).
You got that right!
Despise her…what has she done all these intermittent years?! Delusional like the Iman. Build a party from the ground up, not run for president as a spoiler.
How does a man like this become an Imam. What are his qualifications to lead a section of the Muslim community there. The Muslims in Michigan should disown him and de robe him if it can be done from preaching as an Imam. The man is a disgrace!! He and his group are not just naive, he is downright stupid to believe what Trump has told him. Does he not know that Trump is a serial liar!! Right minded Muslims in Michigan should just ignore him.
I have nothing but admiration for you, Mehdi. It takes a lot of integrity to speak your truth while constantly being attacked as a "shill for the Democrats." I can't bear to read the inanities that fellow progressives write on your Twitter posts. Thank you for your courage and honesty.
Even Trump looked confused 😂 “Is this guy talking about me or is there someone else standing behind me? Jill, is that you standing behind me?” 🤣🤣
Wow. Give it to Mehdi for being able to get through that interview without his head exploding. How is this man a leader of people? That was such a painful watch.
This Imane has no brains, you nailed the interview mehdi like always, keep going
Does the Imam condone his language? Does he allow his children to watch? Does he also speak like Trumpty Dumpty towards his wife & children abnd his community.
They reached out to him - they found a puppet and are exploiting him and the community. He is impressed by the attention he feels he is bringing to the community "President Trump is listening to us" - he will be disappointed as time goes on. Trump has left a trail of broken promises and "the best people" who have turned against him - you can add the Imam and his group to the list. He may have good intentions, but there is a reason you don't make deals with the devil...
As a follow up - told ya... https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/us-orders-airstrikes-isis-targets-somalia/story?id=118348401
I know exactly what I'm talking about and no one , not the Palestinians or my worst enemy deserves a Trump Presidency
That poor Imam, I guess his wishful thinking is a lot bigger than his brain
There is no worse blindness than that who doesn’t want to see
Lia Guezille
Sounds like a desperate hope nothing us stopping this nightmare
In this case the enemy of my enemy is NOT my friend... This Imam and the others that stand with him for Trump have unfortunately betrayed their people with a great lack information gathering and critical thinking.
I believe that Imams, priests, and rabbis shouldn’t endorse or try to sway anyone to vote for anyone. This Imam did a disservice to his mosque and to his credibility regardless of who he would’ve endorsed.
I agree with the Imam, Trump is not perfect and he's got a bad record, but democrats can't take Arab vote for granted.
Frightening how this poor man truly is willing to believe Trump’s Huge Lies!!
Outstanding, Medhi.
Mehdi, You hit the nail on the head, Imam’s naive and he’s been conned!
Even if Donald Trump isn’t racist/islamophobic and he just makes absurd statements to keep his funders happy so he can get into office, there’s plenty of people around him, that’ll eventually be in his cabinet/administration, that most definitely are racist!
I am amazed at the naiveté of the Imam to the point where I find it very sad. I am also angry at Harris that she could have had the support for so little...five points that will never be given to the Muslims who are awaiting them by Trump. My admiration for your ability to retain your composure in this interview grew three sizes today. Let us hope there are more who attended that rally who saw thru what Donald Trump was doing.
Listen listen, I can’t listen anymore 🤯
On "protecting children in schools from curriculum's beyond their understanding"- It amazes me how homophobia is so powerful that it can win over "righteous" "holy" men.
This clown only represents himself…
Wow! Sad to watch and listen to this Iman. I feel those men were "honored" to be seen on stage with a former president of the US, and gave their BIG egos boost and photos to send home,"Look at me!" Fools! I do not think they give a hoot about what is happening to Palestinians. They are opportunist! Trump met with them to just get Muslim's vote.
Wow, This guy is embarresing. Feel sorry for him.
... but the serial liar made me a promise!
Trump is aware of whom endorses him and how! So yes he’s responsible !! This imam is so naive !!!
What about Julian’i endorsing Trump with bigotry and Islamophobia rhetoric and continued clearly attacking Palestinians as being the terrorist… thank you for bringing that up ✌🏻✌🏻✌🏻❤️
Medhi, you are the only one being conned.
Kamala Harris supports the genocidal, rapist, child-slaughtering regime of Israel. There is no redemption for Israel. There is no redemption for the genocide democrats.
If anything, you are the naive one being used, Medhi. Shame on you. Your 'tough reporting' is simply more genocidal, neoconservative propaganda as espoused by the terrorist IDF and corporate grifter Democratic Party.
Did you even watch this? He suggests voting for stein.
A decision he will regret for life ….
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 “110% judging them”
Trusting DT is like the dumbest things you have done Imam Sahab.
They shouldn’t have endorsed the narcissistic megalomaniac man who only cares about himself.
Oh dear! This imam is totally our of his depth.
"I am 110% judging those people, yes ...yeah I think he conned them..." - that line made me LOL big time :). I have to concede, I think you are 110% correct. The Iman's perspective was an interesting one though. I took from his argument that within politics its about 'give and take' and as long as his community gets what was agreed to, by the candidate in question, said candidate's imperfections can be overlooked. Not to mention, that in his opinion, his community has been neglected by the incumbent candidate. I guess that explains or highlights why sane and rational people, like this Iman, opts for taking a punt on the likes of Trump.
As an ex-Muslim, I think that Imams lack critical thinking skills. People glorifying and teaching an ideology can't think properly.
So sad. The plight of his followers so desperate the Imam feels compelled to deal with a fraud, a swindler, thinking he has gained some sort of credibility or bargain, a "quid pro quo"? Delusional.
Glad he is not my Imam.
the guy won't say it on air but it's really about the "gays" and the the "degenerate" left. "Family values."
Unfortunately
Quitte frankly I would not be able to blame anyone who is disgusted with Biden/Harris policy re Gaza, and the fact that Harris has treated Muslim Arab communities which such discrimination that chooses to vote for Trump out of anger. But I agree that these Imans may have been naive.
Did he fast for wisdom? Omg, what a disappointment.
I smell a Rat….
Imam need to understand by endorsing Trump his Masjid will loose the 501c status as it should under the USA law...
You should have asked him how much he got paid for his endorsement. It sounds like he's willing to backstab his own people just to line his pockets with Trump money
Trump looked befuddled getting Imams Endorsement.He must sometimes pinch himself when he denounces everything Muslims do (exempt Saudis) and still gets their Approval.
Religion is “Opium for the People”
Absolutely uninformed. Trump and the entire republican party are no friends to Islam or Palestinians. You cannot trust them. Yes,Biden has not done all he could do to stop this genocide but you failed to understand that most Democrats are against this war and instead you want collaboration with Trump to do what? Shame on all of you doing this.
I came here to write a comment. But my mind is exploding with disgust. This imam is a fraud. I can barely express my sentiments in decent language. But I totally agree - I would never pray with this imam. God help us.
This Imam has no right to represent Muslims. All Holy scriptures urge us to do the right thing, not choose the lesser of two evils. God controls the outcome. We must vote a third-party candidate like Jill Stein
How did he become an imam to represent the Muslim community? This is a big weakness in our system! Unfortunately there have been plenty of examples like him in our islamic history.
Not only in your history, but American history as well!
The way MEHDI is promoting Kamala, so are others promoting Trump and Jill. *Vote for Jill.*
Stupid Imam. Where is the written agreement and what guarantee is when Trump becomes president, he will abide by it. The guy who is known for court cases.
what does she stand for? What is her position on Palestine? she's just going to split the vote and has no chance whatsoever to win anything
Not only that, Mehdi is not promoting Kamala, he is being pragmatic. She is the lesser of the two evils. How many times does Mehdi have to say that. He does not endorse her or promote her. But he knows she can't be worse than Trump in any respect.
She is the better of three, that is her qualification. She has no power to do anything. At least she is supporting for peace, standing with students on campuses and supporting them.
When will you interview Abandon Harris movement co-founder Hassan Abdel Salam? Or are you too afraid to debate him, Mehdi?
This man is a disgrace to Islam, no different than the Evangelicals today. Thank you Mehdi!
Hope the Muslims who voted for the orange turd and Jill Stein are happy with their choices - they have guaranteed the decimation of Palestinians and Palestine 😭
I can’t tolerate to watch this level of stupidity and I don’t know how Mehdi managed to host him for more than 30mins! This imam keeps on pathetically running away from the core issue and never answer the question directly which is an indication of the pressure of Mehdi’s questions! Trying to defend Trump as a peace maker! Really!! this is ironic!
As a Muslim, I find this fellow embarrassing.
I think his ego was massaged because he was ASKED to come meet "the great Trump" and he fell for it. The Trump people must have looked for Muslim "leaders" with "SUCKER" Tattooed on their forehead and there he was!
Mehdi, you DO interrupt too much
What I'm seeing in every minority voting for Trump, black women, black men, Latinos, Muslims, LGBTQ they seem to think the bad stuff will happen to "others" and not them. This sounds like a revenge vote with zero facts.
He is stuck on these "five points". 1. Sucker. 2. Fool. 3. Gullible 4. Delusional 5. Naive
It's amazing how this Imam is believing Trump's lies. All of these people are going to learn the hard way. This dude has every excuse in the book for Trump. The Emperor Has No Clothes.
This Imam is insane trusting Trump. Trump is a con man and he is the Fox conning the chickens out of the hen house.
I guess this is water under the bridge now...
This was very poor interviewing from you, Mehdi. I really wish you would have let him speak and get a thought across instead of constantly interrupting him.
Reading these comments, it's clear that this is just an echo chamber now.
Your unwavering support for Kamala can be described with the same adjectives you use here. The script can quite easily be flipped. But you won't let that happen, will you?
Do better, please.
Sincerely,
Zeteo Founding Member
Hard for Mehdi to have a sensible conversation with an individual who is strong willed even though the Imam has no factual evidence to back up his alleged promises.
The imam went on a tangent most of the time.
I agree it’s a poor interview but not from Mehdi’s stand point. The imam should have started the conversation by clearly articulating answers based on mehdi’s questions based on fact not what the imam believes trump will/ will not do.
The word promise has been used too many times.
Some may have an inflated opinion of their importance and abilities. This 'Imam' may be a case in point.
It’s so painful to live in a time when the brown vote is being hijacked by the right, while simultaneously being left behind by the left. It goes to show that, now more than ever, we need to join forces across underrepresented populations and stand together for human rights.
What is this Imam getting? That's my question. 'Promises and acknowledgments'... really? He sold his reputation for that? There's got to be something more going on behind the scenes, unless he's a strange combination of a slippery, lying, deluded, self serving, naive individual.
Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me
We have seen this movie too many times! Somehow, after the private meeting, our Imam and his community get a little warmer to Mr. Orange Head. (Money talks)
Because you are leader on Friday's Prayer, don't make you the person to make, who to pick let The people decide, don't confuse people
The %80 evangelical "COMMUNITY" will go with Mr. Orange Head, and They finish The Job with Nazi leader Netanyahu. (Annexation of Gaza and West bank).
That's why Religion and Politics stays apart, Don’t Get Fooled Again!
Sweet Summer child. Trump doesn't honor written agreements that are enforceable in court and this fool expects that Trump will honor a verbal agreement.
This was not a very clearly thought out position
Oh Imam, what a shame to have him as an imam. He is gullible for trusting trump. He is shallow minded for not believing for changes with Stein. He just wanted to ditch Harris although he has to choose the other side of the same coin. Shame shame
Anyone who negotiates with the devil is himself a tool of the devil.
Imam is hell bent on “teaching democrats a lesson” and nothing else matters to him no matter how many times he shouts about 5 points!! He’s clearly naive to believe that Trump doesn’t already know that and is clearly playing him up.
Obviously Imam Belal Alzuhairi will take a payoff from the most corrupt person in American politics above the interest of his own community. Mehdi’s questioning made him very uncomfortable and exposed that he has no reason whatsoever to endorse Trump. It is troubling how the Trump cult can suck in anyone.
I wish in a world where Islamophobia is promoted so wildly two Muslims would stop fighting with some another, but unified disregarding their differences to fight for a better future for all humanity
The only thing this so called 'Imam' got right is that Mehdi is a smart, intelligent man. This Imam is of very very low intelligence completely crazy he did not make one coherent argument.
Simply this Imam is homophobe and anti trans people. Plus he hates the hothis and happy to see his country men getting killed if they are from a different sect. Plain and simple. F**k this guy. Because of people like him I left the religion and I’m glad I did.
It breaks my heart when I hear people say they left a religion, country , club or whatever you can think of because of the actions or statements of a member or leader. I think staying in and pointing out how wrong that leader is, is a more effective strategy.
We need to have these heated arguments to move forward and make changes. Thank you.
Wow. Given how evasive he is, it's clear that he is not confident in his assertions. I guess he's really just trying to punish Biden and Harris.
Why we question Muslims endorsing for trump we must mostly question those who has little goodwill at their heart. This Imam, however naive, talked publicly about Muslim’s wants in America. Trump most likely will not honor a single word in the endorsement speech, but history will show that some Muslims endorsed him hoping he will end the genocide and fight Islamophobia
Also - encouraging Muslims to “stay home or vote for Jill Stein” is absolutely ridiculous! That’s like digging your heads in the ground and pretending like nothing is happening. The democrat’s actions speak louder than Donald Trump’s words.
It does not make sense for Muslims to vote Democratic Party given their unrelentless support for the genocide in Gaza, and for their failure to hold Israel and Netanyahu accountable for all their war crimes. Giving a vote to them is going to show both political parties that they can do something like that and get away with it.
But I do agree - humans lie, numbers don’t. So run some numbers - how many Muslims died due to US’s foreign policy, worldwide, during the Trump presidency vs Biden’s and Obama’s? - rest should be straight forward.
I grew up in a Muslim country. As a community Muslims are amongst the warmest, most generous, most hospitable people who make for the best friends and supporters one could be blessed with.
The tragedy that all Muslims must contend with are their religious leaders. Most Muslims recognise that mullahs and imams are assholes that do them a disservice and are charlatans, but don’t speak up against them because of genuine well-founded fears for themselves.
This is yet another asshole imam. NONE of his arguments stand up. Not factually. Not intellectually. Thankfully, he won’t convince many Muslims who have long recognised mullahs and imams to be false prophets and charlatans.
Guys, more than think is stupid, I really feel sorry for him... This is a guy that wants the best for his community and is trying (I believe, the wrong way) to secure something from, maybe, the future USA presidente. Listen Jeff Bezos did the same with the Washington post!
I believe you have to do the right thing... Otherwise you will suffer the consequences. He would face them...
Medhi, he just wants the Genocide to stop. Desperate people do Desperate things. You are being too harsh on him.
I felt for the poor Imam
Infallible? *Infallible*?! The man is already fallen!
This motherfucker made my brain hurt.
Why did you keep saying “with all due respect”? There’s clearly nothing to respect, only ridicule and hate. I have less respect for YOU for saying this bullshit to that moron.
I agree with Mahdi on this when it comes to the Imams who endorsed Trump. However, the same arguments apply to Mahdi and other Muslim and Arab leaders who endorse Kamala!
I see a lot of Muslims accusing this imam in taking money from Trump or having some personal agenda on endorsing Trump. While I don't agree with him, I would stir away from backbiting him and fear the hereafter where you would have to answer for all the ill-fated comments against him. While I disagree with him, I think he did this genuinely and it's only in God's hands to prove him wrong or make his plan work. Let's all pray one day Trump wakes up a better man and delivers on all his promises. I hate to see Muslims being divided like this, especially now. God is the best of planners and God willing everything will change for better! Ameen!
This guy was paid to endorse islamphobia and white supremacy
These Imam and the Muslims who support Trumph are stupid and ought to be cast out of the Muslim community . There are idiots and then there are idiots ! If they were in the Middle east they would be shot !!
This Imam I’m sorry he is an idiot! I always thought that Imams are wise🤷🏾♀️
Dear family and friends in Michigan:
Do not vote for Genocide
Do not vote for women killers
Do not vote for infant killers
Do not vote for Kamala Harris
Please, enough of these foolish men be it an “Imam” or a male USA president - I’d trust the women (other than Hillary R Clinton).
The first priority for all Americans is global warming caused by C02 and methane. The oceans have warmed causing catastrophic weather and cost. The media’s 1 questions are our own extinction. What you gonna do for the value of the kids?
I can’t wait for a Hurricane that sweeps away Mar-a-Lago
Mehdi sounds more like his contemporaries in mainstream media. Imam, at least, is reaching out to build bridges and directly speaking to the candidate. I have yet to see any positive vibe from the other party toward Muslims. 42,000 plus many more are massacred not by Israelis but by the bombs supplied by Biden and Harris paid for by your and mine tax dollars. Has Mehdi heard anything from Biden about sending humanitarian support to Gaza? or is he trusting Biden's 30-day wait period? Mehdi will lose his luster very fast if he continues to show his biased intimidation tactics, like Sean Hannity. Let Imam and people like him do what our prophet guided us. HE IS DOING SOMETHING. OTHERS ARE SITTING TO BE KICKED AROUND AND HOPING HARRIS WILL SOFTEN HER INSTANCE ONCE PRESIDENT.
It is sad that people as naive as him are leaders of the Muslim community.
never thought I would see someone bend themselves over into a pretzel like this. There's ideocracy and then there's this. Yup go ahead buddy vote for trump. I will ask you how it worked out for you in the concentration camp when I see you there.
Ouch!
I just got back from voting. I voted against Harris. And I voted against Ted Cruz. I voted against everyone currently in power.
Sometimes your enemy's enemy simply means you have more than 1 enemy.
These individuals is not smart beyond entertaining their own ego while they "teach the word of God".
This is why I don’t take the Gazan situation seriously. As a gay man, I view the Gazan invasion as morally wrong, but don’t give a flip about a group of religious fanatics who would throw me off of a roof if they could.
Harris and party cannot be rewarded for killing 200,000 Palestinian and more. Nothing is worse than that! Democrats needs to be punished
Ouch! Vindictive politics have no place in voting.
A deeply stupid Imam. He invalidates his leadership. Sadly in the Muslim world we have no shortage of bad leaders. Why is that?
I havent heard the debate yet. But on environmental policy alone, Trump represents the values of greed, dishonesty and exploitation. Not to mention his disrespect for the dignity of immigration, for Palestinians, for the justice system.
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/28/climate/trump-harris-climate-change.html?unlocked_article_code=1.WE4.TTQw.XwvjrQjLz4V9&smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare
No one is buying the vote for Trump endorsement.
This is a Zionist Imam... or an insane one!
Let's be honest - his main reasons for supporting Trump are because of anti-lbtq bigotry and lower taxes. He'll couch them as "family values"
So, basically, Trump’s team found out the Imam likes little boys? No one can be this voluntarily stupid, right?
Is this guy a real Imam? Were these Imams paid for their endorsement? This is insane! Family values? So now we, Muslims, endorse prostitution and the denigration of women as common values? Surely there is something wrong with this picture: either money, or extortion. This cannot be a sane, sensible decision. But then again, we Arabs are emotionally fickle that way... that's how the enemies of life and dignity
have been successful at controlling us!
Is he paid or allowed to get green cards for his family? He can’t be this naive
Inasmuch as I agree that supporting Trump is misguided to say the least, I don’t think it was a good move to take him to the cleaners in public like that. At the end of the day we need to look after each other and protect one another even if it means turning a blind eye to occasional foolishness.
This Joker is the very cancer that is eating up this community.....This moron's desperate attempt to kiss up to Trump is making Malania's breast milk oozing out for him and making Baron Trump jealous....It makes me cringe to address him as "Imam" which bears such a high status in Islam and this guy will be eventually hired by Trump to clean the bathrooms at Trump towers.....SAD BUT A TRUE REFLECTION OF TODAY'S MUSLIM COMMUNITY
Don’t vote any of them this are corrupt politicians they don’t even care for their own people they are bunch of thieves fight for their financial backers
This wannabe imam is a genocide supporter, not only some Christians and some Jews are genocide doers or supporters but Muslims can be as well. Satan isn’t picky to choose who to corrupt.
(Very, very) sadly this guy would trust kushner to sell him -the now vacated, Israeli exterminated and leveled, proposed beach front property in Gaza- that both of the snake oil salesman, trump and kushner are salivating on as a lucrative "deal".
Eff them all and Shame on this (poor judgement) a** kissing Iman.
Read Surah 14:22
He’s a wannabe Imam not an imam, not only he has a brown nose, his whole head is brown from trump’s rear
What a dumb naive confused idiot!
You can always find a Kapo.
Another shouting match where dialogue was relegated to the dustbin. I have no respect for the Imam, but must admit that he’s probably not as stupid as he sounds. Mehdi, on the other hand is now more of a pugilist than the excellent debater that he used to be.
Imam Bilal is wrong, when it comes to Israel , the white house , makes the same stand of AIPAC , .