Pro-Israel college students have observed rising socialist and anti-Israel activism on campuses, which reflects larger trends within the Democratic Party. This has led some young Jewish voters to consider shifting to the right.
University of Michigan senior Addison Stone highlighted a growing sentiment that portrays America negatively. “Even before the post-October 7 campus climate, there was an underlying feeling of ‘America is bad,'” Stone shared at the Israel on Campus Coalition’s national summit in Washington.
Students attending the summit noted the spread of political currents on campuses surfacing in Democratic politics. The party’s progressive wing has gained influence, creating deeper divisions over Israel.
Dylan Goldman, a senior at UC Berkeley, identifies as left-leaning but criticized Democratic lawmakers for embracing socialist candidates who are largely hostile toward Israel.
“Jewish Democrats who aren’t single-issue voters now feel alienated by our own party,” Goldman stated. “It’s pushing us to go further right.”
Abdul El-Sayed, supported by the democratic socialist movement, recently won Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary. This win adds to the success of left-wing candidates challenging the Democratic establishment.
The summit in Washington gathered hundreds of pro-Israel students for advocacy training and discussions on combating antisemitism and strengthening U.S.-Israel relations.
Stone mentioned, “Academics are helping indoctrinate future generations with exposure to these ideas in classes and on social media.” This environment has resulted in visible actions like burning American and Israeli flags on campuses.
“What’s happening to Jewish students on U.S. campuses should alarm every American,” stated Israel on Campus Coalition CEO Jacob Baime. The hostility is now evident in public and online spaces.
“This generation isn’t backing down,” Baime emphasized. “We brought over 1,000 campus leaders to Washington to prepare them to defend their beliefs.”
Fetterman, speaking at the coalition’s event, highlighted the Democratic Party’s shifting stance on Israel. His consistent support for Israel has put him at odds with members of his party. He supported President Trump’s strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
“If you don’t want Iran to acquire a nuclear bomb, bombing their nuclear facilities is reasonable,” Fetterman stated.
Fetterman views the issue with Iran as a broader battle over American values, adding, “Israel is our special ally in that region.”
Ashley J. DiMella reports on politics for Fox News Digital.