Jewish Democrats Navigate Israel Support at DNC Amid Gaza Conflict

The Democratic National Convention in Chicago has become a focal point for Jewish Democrats navigating complex issues surrounding Israel and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. As the convention unfolds, delegates are grappling with their support for Israel while addressing concerns over the war and rising antisemitism.

Candy Glazer, a 76-year-old Massachusetts delegate and long-time member of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), exemplifies the nuanced perspectives within the Jewish Democratic community. While supporting pro-Palestinian demonstrators' right to express their views, Glazer worries about a lack of historical understanding regarding the Middle East conflict.

The convention takes place against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack on Israel. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with tens of thousands of Palestinian deaths reported by the Gaza Health Ministry.

Jewish Democrats at the convention, like Glazer, are closely watching Vice President Kamala Harris's stance on Israel. Harris, whose husband Doug Emhoff is Jewish, is seen by many as a friend to Israel. However, some activists are pressuring her to support an arms embargo on Israel.

"We have to acknowledge that politically, we see a simmering kind of antisemitism on the left."

The Democratic Party platform, approved by delegates, maintains a strong commitment to Israel. This aligns with historical voting patterns, as Jewish Americans have consistently supported Democrats since the 1920s. However, some Jewish Democrats are calling for party leaders to more explicitly condemn antisemitism, particularly in light of recent events.

Doug Emhoff, speaking at the Jewish United Fund of Chicago, highlighted his role in creating the first national strategy to combat antisemitism. He emphasized the importance of ensuring safety for Jewish students on college campuses, a growing concern among many in the community.

The convention has also seen efforts to create safe spaces for Jewish Democrats. Amanda Berman, founder of Zioness, brought her organization to the Democratic National Committee to counterbalance what she perceives as the normalization of antisemitic tropes by some pro-Palestinian activists.

While the majority of Jewish Americans support continued U.S. military aid to Israel, according to a February 2024 Pew Research Center poll, there is a growing acknowledgment of the complexity of the situation. Jeremy Ben Ami, president of J-Street, praised Harris as "an incredible messenger of empathy" for both the Jewish community and Palestinian civilians.

As the convention progresses, some Jewish Democrats are calling for Harris to explicitly identify as a Zionist, following President Biden's lead. This request comes amidst concerns about rising antisemitism and the need for clear support from party leadership.

The Democratic National Convention, first held in 1832, continues to serve as a platform for addressing critical issues facing the party and the nation. As Jewish Democrats navigate their support for Israel with concerns about the ongoing conflict and rising antisemitism, the convention remains a crucial forum for dialogue and policy-making.