As Views Shift, Would a Democratic Congress Change Course on Israel?

Israel’s place in midterm debates

Israel became a prominent issue in Democratic primaries, where centrists and progressives clashed over military aid, Gaza and AIPAC. As Election Day approached, however, the issue appeared less visible in the broader election conversation.

Americans’ views of Israel have fallen over the past 18 months. That shift may matter in the coming presidential contest, but the midterms will show how much it resonates beyond the political left.

Voters rank other priorities higher

Less than a third said cutting off aid to Israel should be a priority. The findings suggest Israel policy is not among the leading concerns for most voters.

AIPAC and campaign spending

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee has become a major spender in US elections and a recurring point of conflict in Democratic primaries. In the general election, however, Republican donors from big business, including tech, have overshadowed AIPAC and helped give Republicans a historic spending advantage. On Wednesday, AIPAC said it would stop endorsing candidates and making direct campaign contributions.

Congressional tools and policy limits

The midterm outcome is unlikely to transform US policy toward Israel because President Donald Trump remains in charge of foreign policy. Even if Democrats regain the House, they would have limited ability to reverse his agenda.

Races to watch

Florida’s Senate race is one contest to watch. Democrat Angie Nixon has criticized her party’s ties to the pro-Israel lobby. In Michigan’s Seventh District, a deeply purple seat, progressive William Lawrence has been outspoken in criticizing US support for Israel.