On August 8, 2024, a fundraiser was held in Los Angeles for Representative Darin LaHood, who is running in the general election for U.S. House Illinois District 16 on November 5, 2024. The event, which began at 6:30 PM, was hosted by ALPI PAC President Paul El Hindi, Vice President Joseph Dania, Wadih Daher, George and Nicole Azouri, and Ferris Wehbe. The gathering brought together attendees from various political backgrounds, including Democrats, Republicans, and Independents, reflecting broad support for Representative LaHood.
Representative LaHood, whose family roots trace back to Aitou, a village in Northern Lebanon, has been a steadfast advocate for the Lebanese-American community. His deep personal connection to Lebanon has informed his commitment to strengthening U.S.-Lebanon relations.
Wadih Daher welcomed the attendees and highlighted Representative LaHood’s dedication to a sovereign and strong Lebanon. He emphasized LaHood’s consistent support for the Lebanese people and the American Lebanese community, particularly in fostering ties between the United States and Lebanon.
Joseph Dania delivered a speech in which he described Representative LaHood as a true friend and advocate of the American Lebanese community. Dania recounted LaHood’s key legislative actions, including the introduction of a bipartisan resolution in 2021, alongside Representative Darrell Issa, to support the U.S.-Lebanon relationship and condemn Hezbollah’s influence. As the co-chair of the U.S.-Lebanon Friendship Caucus, LaHood has been instrumental in advocating for humanitarian assistance, combating government corruption, and supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). Dania also highlighted a resolution previously introduced by Representatives LaHood, Issa, and Max Miller, which proposed imposing sanctions on Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri for his role in delaying the Lebanese presidential election.
Representative LaHood addressed the attendees, expressing his gratitude to the hosts and emphasizing the importance of continued support for his re-election campaign. He reiterated his commitment to the American Lebanese community and his dedication to strengthening the U.S.-Lebanon relationship. LaHood also discussed the significant debate in July 2024, where he successfully opposed a resolution to cut funding for the LAF. He highlighted the critical role of the LAF in maintaining Lebanon’s stability and countering Hezbollah’s influence, ensuring continued U.S. support for the LAF and regional stability. Representative LaHood further mentioned the ongoing efforts of the Lebanese Caucus to introduce a
resolution to move forward with imposing sanctions on Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.
The event served as a testament to Representative LaHood’s enduring support for Lebanon and the American Lebanese community, reinforcing the strong bonds between the two nations