Arab Americans more active in politics

DETROIT, Oct. 28 (UPI) -- U.S. political strategists say concern about the war in Iraq is prompting more Arab-Americans to become active in the 2008 presidential election.

"We think that Arab Americans are going to be a political force to be reckoned with in this upcoming election," said Taleb Salhab, a spokesman for the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services.

Salhab spoke Saturday at a national leadership conference in Detroit organized by pollster John Zogby, the founder and president of the Arab American Institute, the Detroit Free Press reported Sunday.

Zogby said more Arab Americans are becoming involved because of fear and uncertainty about the war in Iraq and a general belief that the United States is in a serious crisis and lacks competent leadership.

Republican strategist Ed Rollins called it crucial for Arab-Americans to be politically active during a time of mistrust of government by its citizens.

"We can't have another failed presidency," Rollins said. "We have to have someone pick the ball up and move forward."