Does the road to the White House run through Naples?
Yes, Naples businessman Casey Askar embodies this question, having been chosen by former President Donald Trump to mobilize voters within the Chaldean community in suburban Detroit. A significant responsibility, as this community holds the potential to sway electoral outcomes in the crucial swing state of Michigan.
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“I truly believe we’ll witness the largest turnout in our community’s history,” said Askar, who has called Naples home for over twenty years yet remains deeply connected to his roots in Michigan. The Chaldean community, a remarkable group of Aramaic-speaking Christians, boasts a rich heritage that dates back to ancient Mesopotamia, a history that resonates with their collective identity.
Insights from Askar indicate that nearly 100,000 Chaldeans are registered to vote in suburban Detroit. Reflecting on past elections, Askar recalls the historic turnout for President Trump during his first campaign. In 2016, the former President edged out his opponents by winning Macomb and Oakland counties, two pivotal regions in a state that can tip the balance in national elections.
However, by the time the 2020 elections came around, the narrative had changed. Trump lost both counties and ultimately Michigan, a result that surprised many. Askar notes with concern that Chaldean turnout nearly halved in the last election cycle. “The margin by which Trump lost Michigan was quite narrow. Had the Chaldean community shown up in greater numbers, along with a stronger automobile vote, the result could have been different,” he reflected thoughtfully.
Connecting with President Trump last summer in an intimate setting, Askar presented his strategies aimed at rekindling the community’s enthusiasm and commitment to the ballot box. His hope is palpable, driven by a desire to extend the historical legacy of the Chaldeans—a legacy rooted not only in their faith but in their ability to effect change in the democratic process. Local businesses in Naples, like the beloved Naples City Grill and the bustling Naples Botanical Garden, stand as reminders of community spirit and resilience, vital in mobilizing voters.
As the next elections approach, the Chaldean community in Michigan finds itself at a crossroads. With Askar’s determination and strategic engagement, the path to the White House may indeed run through Naples. A strong turnout could not only reshape the future of Michigan but also reestablish the community’s influential presence in the political landscape.
