Articles

For the first time since the founding of the experiment in Jewish nationalism, the events that have unfolded in Israel raise questions about the “Zionist dream” and the capacity of the Jewish State to meet the security requirements of its citizens.

If the 19th Century afforded Jews the opportunity to identify and to adopt Western liberal political ideas, to create our own national liberation movement through Zionism, and to access and assimilate into democratic and civic institutions, then, in this century, American Jews are feeling for the first time a systematic rejection of their standing and place within modern society.

This essay is part of an on-going series of articles focusing on the 2024 political campaign. In this selection we are exploring some emerging trends among specific voting groups inside the Jewish community.

The transformation of American Jewish political behavior is being driven by several factors, including these current realities:

Since Oct. 7, Jewish professionals have been called upon to demonstrate a different type of leadership as we continue to grapple with our own personal responses to the events unfolding in Israel. The ripple effects of this moment will likely not only change our sense of self but also impact the institutions we are committed to serving.

The demographic character of America is being recreated. The political culture of this society is experiencing new and significant stresses and threats. The American economic story is transitioning in significant and challenging ways. The role and place of religion in the United States is undergoing profound change. All of this has profound structural and social implications for this nation’s Jews.

Will we be looking at a Jewish political realignment in 2024?

While the current polling data does not necessarily show such a “bleeding” among Jewish democrats,[1] in fact, recent events may be triggering a Jewish voter response different from what we have experienced before.

Since October 7th we have seen countless articles, sermons and posts about how long-time allies of the Jewish community abandoned us in our hours of need after the brutal Hamas massacre — perhaps expressing initial solidarity only to fade away after Israel responded militarily. Some have suggested that we walk away from these relationships, that they have proven to be a waste of time. We believe that is the opposite of what is needed now.

It’s hard to believe it is possible to be more disturbed by the details of Hamas’ butchery on Oct. 7 and the harrowing experiences of hostages taken into Gaza, and yet new photos and interviews and investigations continue to bring new revelations to light. Despite all this, and even as social media and traditional news outlets continue to document increasing instances of antisemitism, there are still Jewish public figures and organizations in America who are choosing at this moment to focus their energies on critiquing Israel’s policies or even questioning the legitimacy of its existence.

In the aftermath of the Hamas pogrom of October 7, we sense a different moment in time as a religious community and as citizens of this country. This is a new war against the Jews, as Hamas’ assault on Israelis is now being carried forward by their allies on America’s soil and beyond. In connection with the Gaza crisis, we are experiencing a series of challenging moments, setting off complex emotions, triggering new questions and generating an array of both personal and collective concerns.

Frederick Douglas reminds us that “Power concedes nothing without a demand.” The staging of the November 14th Solidarity Rally for Israel succeeded on several different fronts. Its message was targeted, direct and clear. The massive attendance, beating all predictions, exceeding all prior Washington Jewish gatherings, made it newsworthy and relevant. It received global coverage, not only in connection with its impressive numbers but the nature of its political and humanitarian messages.