Ex-PAP MP: Minority politicians can face a particular bind. Their race or religion can be used to cast suspicion on them.
SINGAPORE: After the results of the midterm elections in the United States were announced, Amrin Amin, a former Member of Parliament under the People’s Action Party, congratulated Abdul El-Sayed, the candidate from the Democratic Party who won the senatorial race in Michigan. As Mr Amrin pointed out, Dr El-Sayed is the first Muslim elected to the US Senate, which is no small deal. He also noted…
Ex-PAP MP Amrin Amin, reflecting on the recent U.S. midterm elections, highlighted the challenges faced by minority politicians. He praised Abdul El-Sayed, the first Muslim elected to the U.S. Senate, but emphasized the difficulties these candidates often encounter. Mr. Amin pointed out that their race or religion can be weaponized to cast suspicion and attack their loyalties.
Dr. El-Sayed's campaign was marked by millions spent opposing him, and even the U.S. President made racist remarks against him. Vice President JD Vance linked Dr. El-Sayed to violent protests in Paris, resulting in hundreds of arrests. Mr. Amin noted that while minority politicians should be challenged on their policies and judgment, their identity should not be used to question their loyalty.
He stressed that legitimate concerns should not be confused with tactics designed to exploit race or religion to win support or divide people.
Written by urgent.news from The Independent Singapore's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
