Hamtramck Mayor Amer Ghalib has been selected by President Donald Trump to serve as the U.S. ambassador to Kuwait, a decision announced on Truth Social on Friday. Ghalib, a Yemeni immigrant and Hamtramck's first Muslim mayor, supported Trump during the recent election, stating that Trump aimed "to end the chaos in the Middle East and elsewhere," according to The Detroit News. This endorsement came despite Trump not winning the majority vote in Hamtramck, which has a large Muslim American population.
The president acknowledged Ghalib's efforts in securing votes in Michigan and his work as a healthcare professional in the community. Even though Hamtramck is supporting Kamala Harris, Ghalib has remained involved in political issues. He also supported renaming a street to Palestine Avenue to show solidarity with Palestinians, as reported by CBS News Detroit.
Ghalib's leadership in Hamtramck has included a ban on pride flags on city property and a resolution to divest from Israel, reflecting the city's diverse views. He has criticized the Biden and Harris administration and plans to influence foreign policy in his new role as ambassador. President Trump stated, "I know he will make our Country proud in this new role. Congratulations Amer!" as stated by WXYZ. Ghalib also intends to seek a second term as mayor while serving as ambassador.
