In today’s polarized Congress, where even routine decisions can lead to gridlock, there has long been one issue that united lawmakers across the aisle: unwavering support for Israel. But as the recent crisis in Gaza has shown, this once-solid bipartisan consensus is beginning to show cracks.
The Biden administration has stood by Israel, following a U.S. policy that has held strong for decades. Yet, this position is proving politically fraught, particularly as it alienates progressives within the Democratic Party and stirs discontent among Muslim communities in key swing states.
Despite these risks, especially in the midst of a heated election season, President Biden hasn’t wavered. Throughout his campaign and presidency, he has made it clear that he is a steadfast ally of Israel, regardless of the political consequences.
Vice President Kamala Harris, aware of the growing unease within the party, recently met with a group of activists to address their concerns. This move highlighted the tricky balancing act that the administration faces. After the meeting, rumors circulated that Harris was considering an arms embargo on Israel, sparking speculation about a possible shift in her policy commitments. However, her campaign quickly dismissed these rumors, emphasizing that Harris doesn’t support the idea of an arms embargo on Israel.
Harris has been more active in engaging with younger, more progressive voters, hinting at a possible shift in rhetoric that acknowledges Palestinian suffering and criticizes some of Israel’s actions. Still, this approach doesn’t fully meet the demands of activists, especially in states like Michigan, where she was recently confronted by protesters during a campaign event. Frustrated by the disruption, Harris retorted, “If you want Trump to win, then say that.”
The protesters didn’t waste time responding. A spokesperson from the group urged Harris not to push Arab-American voters away, potentially helping Trump by keeping them home on Election Day.
One reason for the administration’s unyielding support for Israel, despite the political risks, is the perceived clout of pro-Israel lobbying groups. Recently, two Democratic incumbents who criticized Israel lost their primaries, facing challengers who were heavily supported by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).
But the influence of the pro-Israel lobby extends beyond Jewish organizations. Evangelical Christian groups, who have been ardent supporters of Israel, hold significant sway as well. As a senior adviser to a Greek-American congressman used to say, “if you want something done, the best way is to get the evangelicals on board.” Together, evangelical and Jewish groups form a powerful coalition that’s hard to ignore in Washington.
While support for Israel may still be a bipartisan issue, it’s no longer a given. Discontent is brewing within the State Department, with some diplomats resigning in protest and others expressing their frustration in a leaked dissident memo, revealing deep opposition to the administration’s stance.
Within the Democratic Party, a vocal left wing has emerged, openly criticizing Israel—a sentiment that’s increasingly echoed by the party’s base. Democratic analyst Van Jones recently acknowledged the presence of anti-Semitic rhetoric within the party, raising concerns about whether the exclusion of Josh Shapiro, a Jewish politician, from the vice-presidential shortlist might signal a troubling shift.
On the Republican side, there are questions about whether the party’s growing isolationism and “America First” doctrine align with its traditionally strong support for Israel. For now, it seems unlikely that there will be any significant shift in Republican policy as long as evangelical Christians remain ardent supporters of Israel. As the U.S. navigates these shifting dynamics, the once-clear lines of bipartisan support for Israel are becoming increasingly blurred, reflecting broader changes in the nation’s political landscape.
