Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison Addresses Dissent at DNC Over Israel-Hamas Conflict
- Minnesota AG Ellison, the first Muslim elected to Congress in 2007, hints at addressing pro-Palestinian protesters in DNC speech.
- Potential speech by Ellison may have implications on Palestine-Israel relations.
- Ellison's stance on the issue may affect his political career and receive mixed reactions.
CHICAGO – Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, the first Muslim elected to Congress, indicated he may address protestors critical of the Biden administration's response to the Israel-Hamas war during his speech at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on Wednesday night. Ellison participated in a panel focused on Palestinian human rights earlier in the week, amid ongoing protests from Muslim and Arab American communities regarding the administration's handling of the conflict. In an interview with ABC News, Ellison emphasized the Democratic Party's openness to debate on pressing issues, acknowledging the tragic loss of life on both sides of the conflict. He highlighted the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis due to Hamas' attacks on October 7, 2023, alongside the casualties and humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians in Gaza. When asked if he would directly address the protestors in his speech, Ellison suggested there was a "good chance" he would. Ellison also noted discussions about including Palestinian voices in the DNC, stating, “Let’s hear from everybody.” He expressed support for the Biden administration's efforts to negotiate a cease-fire in Gaza, reiterating a shared desire among party leaders for an end to violence and the restoration of safety for civilians. As the DNC continues, Ellison's remarks reflect a broader effort to engage with dissenting voices within the party, aiming to address the complexities of the ongoing conflict and its impact on communities across the United States.