Freshman Rep. Summer Lee, a member of the “Squad” in Congress, is facing criticism from within her own party over her stance on Israel. Lee, along with other Squad members, has taken a critical position on Israel in the ongoing conflict with Hamas, leading to challenges in the upcoming primaries, where forces aligned with the Democratic Party are working to defeat her.
Lee has drawn backlash for opposing a resolution to support Israel and condemn Hamas after an attack that killed about 1,200 people, as well as for cancelling an appearance with a Muslim advocacy group due to anti-Semitic remarks made by some of the scheduled speakers. Her challenger, Bhavini Patel, questions Lee’s alignment with the minority of the Democratic Party on these issues.
The primary challenges facing Lee and other Squad members highlight a growing divide within the Democratic Party over their views on Israel. Liberal activist groups are pushing back against pro-Israel organizations like AIPAC, while AIPAC itself is endorsing primary challengers against Squad members.
The outcome of these primary challenges could determine the direction of the Democratic Party and who is welcome within its ranks. Lee, who is black and progressive, believes that efforts to oust progressives could have negative repercussions for the party come November. The debates among Democrats on Israel are not likely to recede, as voters in Pennsylvania’s closed primaries weigh in on the issue.
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