Qamar Bashir

During his last debate with Kamala Harris, Donald Trump made two fundamental mistakes. First, his tirade against the Russia-Ukraine war lacked depth and coherence. Second, his venomous rhetoric against immigrants failed to distinguish between legal and illegal immigration. His positions on both critical issues were shallow, unsupported by evidence, and lacked cogent arguments. His poor articulation of these topics further highlighted his ignorance, which may severely damage his chances of retaining the presidency of one of the world’s most powerful nations, the United States of America.

Moreover, Trump appeared unaware of the significant impact immigrant voters can have on the election. Immigrants can either swing the vote in his favor, shift it towards Kamala Harris, or choose not to vote at all. His alienation of this crucial demographic could prove to be a critical miscalculation in the upcoming election.

Currently, I am staying in Macomb, Michigan, where the sentiment among immigrants, both new and longstanding, is largely negative towards Trump. This hostility has intensified, especially after hearing his inflammatory and offensive remarks, where he labeled all immigrants as “dog and cat eaters.” These derogatory comments have deeply alienated the immigrant community here.

The demographic of Michigan state is very interesting. Out of the total population of 10 million the black and immigrants make up 25% of the population. The immigrant population in the U.S., especially in key swing states like Michigan, is growing and becoming a more politically active and decisive voting bloc. Immigrant communities from South Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and East Asia are playing an increasingly prominent role in elections.

Trump’s anti-immigrant policies, such as the Muslim travel ban, his derogatory rhetoric about Mexican immigrants, and his hardline stance on border security, have alienated many immigrant and minority groups. These voters view Trump as a threat to their communities, families, and values, which was reflected in increased minority voter turnout against him in 2020. This alienation is likely to persist, if not intensify, in the upcoming election.

 Kamala Harris, as a woman of South Asian and Jamaican descent, holds particular significance for immigrant communities. Her nomination and vice presidency represent a historic milestone in the U.S. political landscape, and her background could galvanize South Asian, African-American, and Caribbean-American voters. Harris’s candidacy could act as a rallying point for immigrant and minority voters, particularly those who see her as an advocate for civil rights, immigration reform, and inclusive policies.

In Michigan, immigrant and minority voters are concentrated in urban areas like Detroit, Dearborn, and Ann Arbor. Arab-American voters, particularly from the Lebanese, Syrian, and Yemeni communities in Dearborn, have historically played a decisive role in local and national elections. Similarly, the South Asian population in suburban Detroit is growing and becoming more politically engaged.

Given the state’s narrow margins in recent elections, the mobilization of immigrant voters could be crucial. In 2020, Joe Biden won Michigan by around 154,000 votes. Immigrant and minority voters, particularly in urban centers, contributed significantly to this victory. If the Democratic Party can further energize these communities, particularly through the candidacy of Kamala Harris, it could more than compensate for any losses among the white working-class voters Trump retains.

In Michigan in particular and across the USA in general, the white vote is no longer a monolithic bloc. Trump continues to enjoy strong support among white working-class voters, particularly those without a college degree, due to his populist message on trade and immigration. However, college-educated whites, particularly in suburban areas, are increasingly turning away from Trump’s more extreme positions on race, immigration, and governance.

Applying the theory of a divided white vote and a unified immigrant vote across the U.S. in 2024 gives much deeper insights into Harris’s potential gains.

Texas has a large Latino and South Asian population. Latino voters, in particular, are a significant force in Texas, making up about 40% of the population. A 3-5% immigrant vote swing in Harris’s favor could be enough to make Texas a competitive state.

Florida has a large Latino (primarily Cuban-American and Puerto Rican) and immigrant population. Harris could see gains in South Florida if she can energize Latino voters with policies on immigration, economic opportunity, and healthcare. Potential Gain for Harris: 2-4% swing, particularly in Miami-Dade and Orlando regions, could bring Florida back into the Democratic column.

Arizona has a sizable Latino population and saw Joe Biden win in 2020. Harris could potentially build on this success by increasing turnout among Latino and younger immigrant voters. A 2-3% increase in immigrant turnout could solidify Arizona as a Democratic win.

Georgia has seen a growing Black and immigrant population, particularly Latinos and Asians in the Atlanta metro area. A 2-4% increase in turnout among Black, Latino, and Asian communities could help secure Georgia for Harris.

Pennsylvania has a smaller immigrant population compared to some other states, but urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have significant Black and Latino communities. A 1-2% gain among immigrants and urban voters could solidify her hold on the state.

Immigrant voters, especially from South Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and East Asia, are becoming a politically decisive bloc in key swing states. Many immigrants view Harris, the daughter of South Asian and Jamaican immigrants, as a symbol of inclusivity and progress, and her candidacy could galvanize these voters, particularly in states like Michigan, Texas, Florida, and Georgia, where immigrant populations are significant.

The potential for Harris to increase voter turnout among first-generation immigrants and young voters could be a game-changer in battleground states. Immigrant and minority communities in Michigan, for example, were instrumental in Joe Biden’s 2020 victory, and similar turnout in 2024 could be decisive.

Ultimately, if Harris can capitalize on a divided white electorate and the growing political power of immigrant voters, she stands to gain a 2-4% increase in key swing states. This shift could tip the balance in her favor, particularly in states like Arizona, Georgia, and Pennsylvania, where narrow margins have defined recent elections.

Qamar Bashir

Former Press Secretary to the President

Former Press Minister to the Embassy of Pakistan to France

Former MD, SRBC, CEO, ATV

ISLAMABAD, SEPT 18 (DNA) – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received a telephone call today from King Charles III. The King formally invited the Prime Minister to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa in October. Accepting the invitation, the Prime Minister said that the CHOGM in Samoa would be a significant moment in the history of the Commonwealth, being the first summit that the King would chair since becoming Head of the Commonwealth.

Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the Commonwealth and the values enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter. He said that the CHOGM in Samoa would provide a forum to discuss opportunities for enhancing intra-Commonwealth cooperation on a number of important issues, such as fostering sustainable development, strengthening democratic institutions, and empowering Commonwealth youth.

Noting the King’s longstanding interest in environmental issues and various initiatives for climate sustainability, the Prime Minister said that he particularly looked forward to engaging with Commonwealth leaders on climate change, especially as Pakistan is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

The Prime Minister also inquired after the King’s health and conveyed his best wishes for Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales, who had successfully completed her treatment.

Recalling the fond memories of the King’s last visit to Pakistan, when he was the Prince of Wales, the Prime Minister hoped that the King and Her Majesty The Queen would visit Pakistan soon.

RAWALPINDI, SEPT 18 /DNA/ – Alexey Overchuk, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, paid a courtesy call on General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), at the General Headquarters. During their meeting, they engaged in productive discussions on matters of mutual interest, regional security dynamics, and bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

The COAS reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to fostering traditional defence ties with Russia. Both sides reaffirmed their resolve to strengthen security and defence cooperation in multiple domains.

The visiting dignitary praised the Pakistan Armed Forces’ pivotal role in combating terrorism and their tireless efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

LAHORE, SEP 18 (DNA) — Provincial Minister for Industries and Commerce Chaudhry Shafay Hussain laid the foundation stone of the project to build 19 centres of excellence in Government College of Technology here at Allama Iqbal Town on Wednesday. Under the project, Centres of Excellence will be established in 16 institutions of TEVTA and 3 institutions of Punjab Vocational and Training Council.

With the support of Asian Development Bank, 19 centres of excellence will be built and the project will cost Rs. 5 billion. Chaudhry Shafay Hussain said that the plan to establish centres of excellence in Punjab is a milestone in the preparation of skilled manpower. Completion of the project will increase the efficiency and professional technical skills of these institutions. CBTA based courses will be conducted on modern lines in all these centres of excellence.

Chaudhry Shafay Hussain apprised that under this project, access to technical and vocational education will be easy. The youth will get decent employment opportunities. 8 different priority economic sectors have been selected under this project which include information communication, technology, health, hospitality, construction, textiles, garments, light engineering, agriculture farm machinery, surgical instruments, automobiles, auto-bike assembling and food processing sectors as well.

The Provincial Minister for Industries and Commerce said that a revolutionary project has been started to create centres of excellence for the promotion of skill development. Garment City is being built in Quaid-e-Azam Business Park Sheikhupura on an area of 630 acres. China’s textile industry will move to Garment City and new factories will also be built over there. Chaudhry Shafay Hussain said that Chinese companies will set up factories for manufacturing solar panels and electric vehicles in Punjab this year.

 He underscored that if all institutions work hard and diligently, there will be no need to borrow from the IMF. For the first time, solar studies have been initiated in TEVTA’s facilities and the project to upgrade TEVTA’s facilities has been initiated. Chairperson Chief Minister Task Force on Technical Education Adnan Afzal Chattha said that a major skill development project has been started with the support of Asian Development Bank.

37,000 children will benefit from this project launched with the support of Asian Development Bank. He said that under the Chief Ministerial Development Program, IT short courses are being provided free of cost to the youth. Provincial Secretary for Industries and Commerce Ehsan Bhutta said that 64% youth population is not a burden but the future of the country.

 The destiny of the country can be changed by making the youth skilled. He said that girls have been given free pick and drop facility in Garment City and they are also being given a stipend of Rs. 20,000 per month. He further informed that Centers of Excellence in Sialkot and Mian Channu will be completed by December. Project Director Zohaib highlighted the salient features of the project. —DNA

ISLAMABAD, SEPT 18 (DNA) – President Asif Ali Zardari has categorically rejected the elections for the Legislative Assembly of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), asserting that these polls are no substitute for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. He emphasised that such elections are unacceptable to the people of Kashmir and called upon the international community to hold the Modi government accountable for ongoing human rights violations in IIOJK. He further urged the need to take concrete steps toward conducting a plebiscite in line with relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions.

The President expressed these views while talking to a delegation of migrants from IIOJK, residing in Pakistan since 1989, led by Mr Uzair Ahmed Ghazali, at Aiwan-e-Sadr, on Wednesday.

Welcoming the delegation, the President condemned the Legislative Assembly elections in IIOJK, terming them as part of India’s broader strategy to consolidate its illegal occupation of the region. He highlighted that such measures could neither legitimize India’s occupation nor suppress the freedom struggle of the Kashmiri people. He stated that India was trying to alter the demographic structure of IIOJK by turning the Kashmiri Muslims into a minority and transforming them into a disempowered community in their own land.

The President said that Pakistan greatly valued the sacrifices made by the Kashmiri people for their rights and would continue to stand in solidarity with them. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to provide moral, political and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri people till the realization of their right to self-determination.

The delegation apprised the President about the atrocities being committed by the Modi regime in IIOJK. It was highlighted that the entire Kashmiri leadership had been imprisoned to suppress the voice of the Kashmiri people. The delegation also apprised the President about the issues of the refugees in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).

The President underscored that a protest should be lodged over the illegal steps and atrocities being committed by the Indian Occupation Forces in IIOJK. He said that Pakistan was committed to the socio-economic uplift of refugees and resolving their issues. He assured the delegation that the Government of AJK would be asked to enhance subsistence allowance as well as provide other relief measures to Kashmiri refugees. He further assured that Pakistan’s social safety net would be extended to include 8000 migrant families through the Benazir Income Support Programme.

The delegation thanked the President for Pakistan’s continued moral, political and diplomatic support for the Kashmiri people. The delegation also commended the efforts and role of the Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party, Mr Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who strongly advocated the cause of the people of IIOJK at various fora during his tenure as the Foreign Minister of Pakistan.

ISLAMABAD, SEPT 18 (DNA) – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar welcomed the Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexei Overchuk, on his arrival at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Islamabad.

They will discuss areas of multi-faceted bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and the Russian Federation including trade, energy and connectivity.

ISLAMABAD, SEPT 18 (DNA) – The King formally invited the Prime Minister to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa in October. Accepting the invitation, the Prime Minister said that the CHOGM in Samoa would be a significant moment in the history of the Commonwealth, being the first summit that the King would chair since becoming Head of the Commonwealth.

Prime Minister Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the Commonwealth and the values enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter. He said that the CHOGM in Samoa would provide a forum to discuss opportunities for enhancing intra-Commonwealth cooperation on a number of important issues, such as fostering sustainable development, strengthening democratic institutions, and empowering Commonwealth youth.

Noting the King’s longstanding interest in environmental issues and various initiatives for climate sustainability, the Prime Minister said that he particularly looked forward to engaging with Commonwealth leaders on climate change, especially as Pakistan is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

The Prime Minister also inquired after the King’s health and conveyed his best wishes for Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales, who had successfully completed her treatment.

Recalling the fond memories of the King’s last visit to Pakistan, when he was the Prince of Wales, the Prime Minister hoped that the King and Her Majesty The Queen would visit Pakistan soon.

ISLAMABAD, SEPT 18 (DNA) – The highly anticipated Study in Malaysia Education Fair in Pakistan is set to take place in Islamabad on 18th September 2024, at Hotel Ramada by Wyndham. This event, Organised by Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) aims to provide Pakistani students and their parents with a unique opportunity to explore the diverse range of educational Programmes offered by leading Malaysian universities.

The fair will be officially officiated by the H.E. Ambassador Dato’ Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Pakistan. A distinguished lineup of Malaysian universities will be participating, including University Putra Malaysia (UPM), Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU), UCSI University, INCEIF University, Multimedia University (MMU), University Kuala Lumpur (UniKL), University Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), University of Cyberjaya (UoC), University Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), University Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and University Malaya (UM).

Visitors to the fair will have the chance to interact directly with university representatives, learn about the various courses and programmes available, understand the admission requirements, and explore the vibrant Malaysian student life. Additionally, the event will feature informative seminars and workshops on topics such as scholarships, visa procedures, and career prospects in Malaysia.

Malaysia has long been a preferred destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, multicultural environment and affordable education and living costs. Based on the latest statistics from EMGS, Pakistan is among the top 5 countries for new applications received to study in Malaysia in 2024. International students from Pakistan have a growing interest in studying abroad in Malaysia, with more than 7000 applications received since 2020.