Rep. Becca Balint, D-Vt., shared with CNN her experience of a fellow House Democrat dismissing antisemitism by claiming that “all the Jews are rich.” Balint was one among many Jewish Democratic politicians expressing worry about a rising trend of antisemitism within grassroots campaigns, which is impacting figures like California state Sen. Scott Wiener.
Balint revealed her distress after witnessing Wiener being heckled by anti-Israel activists, which deeply affected her due to their criticism based on his past support for Israel and Jewish heritage.
Concerns Within the Party
Despite supporting progressive causes, Balint voiced concerns over antisemitism within her party. She noted a relatable pain when people diminish the existence of homophobia and question her identity as a lesbian. She recounted a session at a bipartisan antisemitism task force meeting where an unnamed House Democratic colleague expressed disbelief in current antisemitism due to the assumption of Jewish wealth.
Balint advocates for a two-state solution, acknowledging her fears of backlash from her supporters due to her stance on Israel’s safety and the right of Palestinians to have a secure homeland. She affirms that she does not believe Israel should be dismantled.
Political Litmus Test
Some Jewish Democrats, like New York City comptroller Mark Levine, believe Israel is becoming a political “litmus test”, affecting their support for progressive causes and critique of the Israeli government. Levine highlighted the anxiety they experience due to accusations tied to Israel, despite their criticism of the Israeli government’s actions.
Michigan state Rep. Noah Arbit described how antisemitism is often masked as criticism of Israel. He expressed uncertainty in identifying with the Democratic Party in the future due to hostility from grassroots movements toward Jewish identity.
These discussions reveal a complex layer of fears among Jewish Democrats regarding their involvement and identity within a political sphere perceived as increasingly antagonistic.