Democratic lawmakers are displaying significant division over legislation to end aid to Israel, signaling a shift in attitudes as support grows for the Palestinian cause within the party. House members recently voted 104-313 against an amendment proposing the cut of $3.3 billion in foreign aid to Israel for the upcoming fiscal year. This vote split the House Democratic leadership, which chose not to direct members on the issue.
Key Figures in the Debate
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries opposed the amendment, alongside 97 other Democrats. In contrast, Rep. Katherine Clark, the chamber’s second-ranking Democrat, supported the measure with 102 colleagues. Ten Democrats abstained from voting.
Rep. Thomas Massie, the measure’s sponsor, labeled Israel as the “biggest welfare recipient of the United States.” He was the sole Republican backing the amendment.
Arguments Against the Amendment
Opponents, including Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, argued that cutting aid could harm U.S.-Israel relations, particularly during the Iran war, and weaken Israel’s capacity to fight terrorist groups. The foreign aid is often used by Israel to acquire American weaponry, thus supporting the U.S. industrial base.
Former House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer criticized the amendment, suggesting it would encourage hostility against Israel’s existence.
Support Despite Defeat
Even with the amendment’s failure, its supporters took pride in the increased opposition to funding for Israel. Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Greg Casar highlighted the growing movement within the Democratic Party to shift spending towards domestic concerns rather than foreign military endeavors.
Crafting U.S. Policy Towards Israel
Jeffries criticized the amendment for being too broad, potentially affecting humanitarian aid and peace-building efforts. He stressed the need for a change in U.S. policy toward Israel.
Clark and other Democrats argued for using financial leverage to alter Israel’s actions, especially in response to its war in Gaza.
Massie’s amendment did not contain provisions to protect non-military aid from being cut.
Shifting Democrat Views
A growing number of Democrats are adopting stronger positions against Israel, influenced by recent polling. An NBC News survey found 67% of Democratic voters sympathize more with Gaza than Israel, with only 17% expressing the opposite sentiment.
Socialist candidates in New York successfully challenged establishment figures in the June primaries, largely campaigning against Israel. Rep. Ro Khanna supports ending U.S. aid to Israel, reflecting the party’s shifting stance.
Rising Expectation for Support
Some Democrats anticipated significant backing for Massie’s proposal, reflecting broader sentiments beyond ideological divides. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez believes the issue is resonating across various sections of the party.