In a recent interview on “The Tavis Smiley Show,” independent presidential candidate Cornel West revealed his vice presidential pick, fellow academic Melina Abdullah. West praised Abdullah’s dedication to the welfare of the poor and working class, stating, “She has a record of deep commitment and investment in ensuring that poor and working people are at the center of her vision.”
West expressed his desire for a running mate who would honor the legacies of civil rights icons like Fannie Lou Hamer and Martin Luther King Jr. Abdullah, a Muslim Black woman and a board member of Black Lives Matter Grassroots, could potentially enhance West’s appeal to Muslim and Black Americans disillusioned with President Joe Biden’s administration.
Abdullah’s Enthusiastic Acceptance
Abdullah, a pan-African studies professor at California State University, Los Angeles, expressed her excitement to join West’s campaign, which she believes embodies the principles of “truth, love and justice.” She hopes their joint ticket, featuring two Black candidates, will inspire voters to consider alternative political leadership.
West’s Contrast with Biden
West’s choice of a Muslim running mate underscores his efforts to attract Muslim American voters dissatisfied with Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict. West has been vocal about his pro-Palestinian stance, frequently describing Israel’s military actions in Gaza as “genocidal.” He also used the recent police shooting of Dexter Reed in Chicago to highlight the differences between his and Abdullah’s approach and that of Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.
Democratic National Committee’s Response
The Democratic National Committee dismissed West’s vice presidential announcement, maintaining that only President Biden and Donald Trump have a viable path to victory. DNC spokesperson Matt Corridoni told CNN, “The stakes are high and we know this is going to be a close election – that’s why a vote for any third party candidate is a vote for Donald Trump.”
Abdullah’s Continued Commitment to Black Lives Matter
Abdullah, a Howard University graduate with a degree in African American Studies and a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Southern California, affirmed her ongoing commitment to Black Lives Matter Grassroots. She expressed hope that members of the organization would support West’s campaign, while clarifying that the organization itself does not endorse candidates.
Despite potential concerns that her affiliation with Black Lives Matter could negatively impact West’s campaign, Abdullah believes her experience organizing local chapters could prove beneficial. “I think some people might see it as baggage, but I actually see the work and experience of organizing in the kind of authenticity of our work as something that actually fuels this campaign,” she said.
This story has been updated with additional information.