FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 14, 2025
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Washington, D.C. | This Arab American Heritage Month, the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) recognizes the innumerable Arab Americans who have proudly served in public office—at the local, state, and federal levels. Their leadership exemplifies the spirit of service that underpins our diverse nation and sets an inspiring example for future generations.
ADC notes that the Trump Administration has appointed a notable number of Arab Americans to senior-level positions—exceeding previous administrations. While some policy disagreements exist, these appointments marked a significant step forward for representation and set a noteworthy benchmark for future administrations to consider.
Among them:
Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, Jordanian-American, has been nominated as U.S. Surgeon General.
Dr. Marty Makary, Lebanese-American, has been nominated to head the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Massad Boulos, Lebanese-American, has been nominated as Senior Adviser on Arab, Middle East Affairs, and Africa.
Michel Issa, Lebanese-American, has been nominated as U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon.
Tom Barrack, Lebanese-American, has been nominated as U.S. Ambassador to Turkey.
Bill Bazzi, Lebanese-American, has been nominated as U.S. Ambassador to Tunisia. He currently is the mayor of Dearborn Heights, Michigan.
Amer Ghalib, Yemeni-American, has been nominated as U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait. He currently is the mayor of Hamtramck, Michigan.
Andrew Boutros, Egyptian-American, has been appointed interim U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois.
Bill Essayli, Lebanese-American, has been appointed U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California.
As we look ahead, we urge future campaigns and administrations—regardless of political affiliation—to not only meet but exceed this benchmark of inclusion. A government that fully reflects the nation’s diversity will be more responsive, equitable, and effective. Recruiting and appointing highly qualified Arab American professionals to top-level positions furthers that aim and strengthens our collective democracy.
ADC recognizes the importance of Arab American representation in government while continuing to critically engage with policy. Having Arab Americans at the table brings needed perspective and strengthens decisions that impact all communities. This Arab American Heritage Month, we honor those in public service and reaffirm our commitment to fair representation at every level of government. We look forward to working with current and future appointments of highly-qualified Arab American professionals in the Trump administration, and we encourage the administration to continue this trend.