Relations with Israel: A Tensile Issue for Democrats and Republicans

Democratic Party strategists in Michigan have selected Abdul El-Sayed, a young left-leaning Muslim physician, for their Senate nomination, a move many consider risky in a state with deep roots in the auto industry. El-Sayed defeated incumbent candidates in primary elections held in early August, surprising party establishment members who traditionally believed conservative candidates were necessary to win in this swing state. The 41-year-old candidate, born in a suburb of Detroit to Egyptian parents, holds degrees from Oxford and Columbia universities. He previously served as health commissioner for both Detroit and Wayne County. His campaign focuses heavily on expanding Medicare to all Americans, a policy currently limited to seniors and individuals with disabilities. During a recent rally at Cass Technical High School in Detroit, El-Sayed entered to the sound of Tupac Shakur’s song “Changes.” He removed his jacket and rolled up his sleeves before chanting his slogan alongside the crowd: “Money out of politics, money in your pockets, Medicare for all.” He argued that in the wealthiest nation in history, it should not be difficult to afford groceries, fuel, rent, or medical care. He further stated that taxes should benefit citizens and their children rather than funding military operations abroad. El-Sayed’s victory in the Democratic primary was notable because he defeated a long-time supporter of Israel. This internal party shift highlights growing tensions within the Democrats regarding foreign policy. Republicans are attempting to discredit El-Sayed by labeling him an Islamist and anti-Semite. However, El-Sayed has gained traction by criticizing President Donald Trump’s unpopular war in Iran and the resulting surge in gasoline prices. He positions himself as a sharp opponent of the current administration’s foreign and economic policies. If El-Sayed wins the general election on November 3, he would become the first Muslim senator in United States history. A victory would result in Michigan sending a Jewish woman, Representative Elissa Slotkin, and a Muslim man to the Senate. This demographic composition reflects broader shifts in American politics. Michigan has the largest Arab minority in the country. In Dearborn, half the population identifies as Muslim. Rashida Tlaib, daughter of Palestinian parents, was elected to Congress from this district in 2019, becoming one of the first two female Muslim representatives. Supporters describe El-Sayed as confident and articulate. Abbas, a 23-year-old camera operator standing near the Islamic Center of America in Dearborn, expressed support for El-Sayed primarily due to high living costs. He noted that gas prices are very high and food is expensive, stating he would appreciate efforts to lower these costs. For Abbas, El-Sayed’s religious identity is not a defining factor in his support. The mosque features a golden dome with a crescent moon and two minarets, with an American flag flying nearby. El-Sayed handles his heritage openly and often uses humor during appearances. Unlike many politicians, he does not accept direct donations from large corporations, relying instead on small-dollar contributions. Some observers draw parallels between him and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Both figures challenge traditional political norms. However, critics argue El-Sayed struggles to create a genuine sense of community unity compared to other progressive leaders. Black voters play a crucial role in Michigan, comprising roughly three-quarters of Detroit’s population and majorities in smaller cities like Flint. Despite this, El-Sayed rarely addresses African American communities directly by name during his speeches. The issue of Israel complicates the campaign landscape for both parties. Surveys indicate declining solidarity with Israel among younger Americans. Darializa Avila Chevalier, a former student activist at Columbia University, is running for Congress in Harlem after being arrested while protesting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the United Nations. She argues against using tax dollars for what she describes as Israeli war crimes. Her candidacy represents a new generation of Democratic activists focused on holding government officials accountable for foreign policy decisions. Mamdani serves as a mentor for the pro-Israel critical wing of the Democrats. While he accuses Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, he has also launched programs to combat antisemitism. At a memorial for the October 7 attacks, he faced angry demonstrations where protesters called him a traitor and accomplice in genocide. This dynamic illustrates the difficulty of balancing criticism of Israeli actions with opposition to antisemitism. Republican factions are also divided over Middle East conflicts. Christian Zionists view Israel as a holy land requiring military defense against enemies like Iran. Conversely, the “America First” faction, which promised an end to Middle Eastern wars, feels betrayed by the ongoing conflict with Iran. Energy prices have spiked during the election cycle due to the lack of a diplomatic resolution. Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson has publicly broken with Trump, comparing the president to a slave controlled by external forces. Carlson accuses Israel of manipulating U.S. policy, a claim that has led some to accuse him of spreading antisemitic conspiracy theories. These narratives spread rapidly through social media influencers targeting younger Republican supporters. Polls show a majority of Americans under 50 hold negative views of Israel and want reduced military aid. President Trump recently avoided meeting with Netanyahu, suggesting the alliance is weakening.