Progressive Democratic Candidates Critical of Israel Target House Seats

Several progressive Democratic candidates who oppose U.S. support for Israel are on the ballot for the U.S. House of Representatives this week, a development that could amplify calls for policy changes. In New York’s 10th Congressional District, former New York City council member Brad Lander, who was detained by Israeli troops after entering a restricted area in the West Bank, is seeking a seat. When asked to substantiate his claim that “ethnic cleansing” was occurring in the West Bank, Lander said, "I’m telling you, that’s what I saw." Another New York candidate, Daryeliza Avila Chevalier, a former student-movement leader at Columbia University, has criticized U.S. funding and weapons transfers to Israel. In California and Michigan, additional activists are campaigning on platforms that include sanctions, support for the boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) movement, and an end to U.S. military and economic aid to Israel. New Jersey congressional hopeful Dr. Adam Hamawy, who provided medical care in Gaza during the recent conflict, argues that U.S. tax dollars are being used to support policies he opposes, stating, "This is what we are doing with our tax dollars." The candidates’ campaigns reflect a broader effort within the Democratic Party’s progressive wing to attach conditions to, or end, U.S. assistance to Israel. Electoral gains could increase that wing’s leverage in congressional debates and pressure future Democratic presidential contenders, though any policy shift would require broader party and congressional support.