Fetterman Critiques Democratic Party’s Stance on Israel

Senator John Fetterman, representing Pennsylvania, expressed concerns on Saturday regarding the Democratic Party’s stance on support for Israel. Speaking at the Texas Tribune Festival in Austin, Fetterman highlighted what he perceives as the party’s increased tolerance towards individuals with controversial opinions on American events, like 9/11, over those who are vocal supporters of Israel.

During a discussion with Major Garrett, CBS News chief Washington correspondent, Fetterman addressed the party’s ‘big tent’ concept. He remarked, “It’s easier to be included in that big tent to say ‘America deserved 9/11’ or America is ‘worse than Al-Qaeda’ than being very proud to stand on the side of Israel.” Fetterman observed a growing anti-Israel sentiment within his party.

“More and more members of my caucus are becoming more and more anti-Israel,” Fetterman stated.

Fetterman’s comments about America “deserving 9/11” relate to statements by streamer Hasan Piker, originally made during a 2019 livestream. Although Piker later clarified his stance, Fetterman used these episodes to illustrate the direction of political enthusiasm within his party.

Recent shifts in Democratic voters’ views have been substantial. A 2023 Pew Research Center survey showed 80% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning individuals hold an unfavorable view of Israel, an increase from 53% the previous year.

Fetterman cautioned that an apparent trend of increasing anti-Israel sentiments could lead to significant changes in Democratic Party support for Israel. Evidence of this shift appeared in Senate votes concerning Israeli military aid, which showed resistance from segments of the Democratic caucus.

“If our party ever becomes, and just makes it official, the anti-Israel party, that’s when I would leave,” Fetterman declared.

Meanwhile, Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin distanced the DNC from Piker’s controversial remarks, emphasizing the party’s broad inclusivity. Martin stated, “Let me just say that I think it’s absolutely disgusting and deplorable the things that Hasan Piker has said. But he does not represent the Democratic Party.”

Fetterman also mentioned resolutions backed by Senator Bernie Sanders. These involve opposing Israeli military sales, illustrating a challenge within the party regarding its stance on Israel. While some resolutions attempted to block arms sales to Israel, Fetterman highlighted the importance of defensive assistance such as funding for the Iron Dome.

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