In interview with Muslim influencer, Harris campaign team banned any questions about Gaza

According to an investigation by New York TimesMuslim TikTok star Kareem Rahma, followed by more than 500,000 subscribers, has decided not to publish an interview recorded in August 2024 with Vice President Kamala Harris due to differences on the topics discussed.

Harris’ team, in effect, banned questions about Gaza, a crucial issue for Kareem Rahma and the Muslim community. Instead, Harris launched into an unexpected discussion about bacon, which she described as a “spice,” a disturbing remark for the Muslim influencer, who does not consume pork for religious reasons.

In this exchange Rahma described as “boring,” Harris also mentioned his preference for anchovies on pizza, a poor attempt to divert the discussion, suggested by a member of his team. Rahma was all the more disappointed by this interview, as he was hoping to discuss pressing but a little too disturbing subjects, such as the United States’ support for Israel in the massacres in Gaza. Ultimately, he decided not to release the video, fearing negative reactions from his subscribers.

This incident, which occurred in the middle of the electoral campaign, highlights tensions around sensitive international issues such as the continued massacres in Gaza and Lebanon.

Kareem Rahma’s cancellation of the interview reflects the Muslim community’s expectations that their concerns be addressed in an open and respectful manner. As Harris officials attempt to navigate diplomacy and communications strategy, this situation highlights the difficulty for political figures in responding to the concerns of diverse constituencies.