Replacing dishwasher air inlet seal

I have been unable to remove the cracked air inlet seal (a narrow strip of plastic about 20 inches wide, about part # AP3085279) that is located along the bottom edge of the door to replace it. This seal installs with two screws but the screws are to the back. I figure that I have to remove the stainless steel door cover to access the air inlet screws. Despite removing all of the screws along the outer edge of the stainless steel door I still cannot easily separate the inner and outer door sections to get access to the back of the air inlet seal. When I try to pull them apart there is some resistance but I do not know from what. Very frustrating because I figure this should be an easy fix.

I have also attached a photo of the air inlet seal because I after looking through the forum site I have seen several discussions of the door vent, but that is not the issue here.

Many thanks for any suggestions.