Democratic Anger Over Biden’s Gaza Policy Could Affect November Election
Unanticipated Democratic Discontent
Democratic Party anger over President Joe Biden’s handling of the Gaza war has taken his campaign by surprise. This discontent may dampen support in the upcoming November election. More than a dozen senior party and campaign officials and dozens of voters and activists expressed their dissatisfaction in interviews with Reuters.
Growing Frustration
Initially, the White House expected the unrest over Gaza to fade as Biden focused on campaigning against Donald Trump. However, nine months before the election, the situation has worsened. Biden’s refusal to call for a permanent ceasefire has sparked anger among a coalition of voters crucial to his 2020 victory, from Black Americans to Muslim activists in Michigan to young voters.
Deepening Divisions
The Democratic Party has been split over Biden’s strong support for Israel since the Hamas attacks in October. While some Jewish Americans back Biden, many younger Democrats and people of color oppose his approach due to the escalating death toll in Gaza. Crucial parts of his coalition now feel disillusioned and angry.
Arab-American Activism
In Michigan, Arab-American activists who supported Biden in 2020 are now withholding their backing. They are urging primary voters to choose “uncommitted” as a sign of protest against Biden’s Gaza policy. The administration has attempted to address these frustrations through meetings and discussions on aid for Gaza.
Challenges Ahead
Democratic strategists warn that underestimating these concerns could be a mistake. The anger over Israel and other policies has surprised Biden’s campaign, which is now striving to engage with voters on these critical issues. As the election approaches, the campaign faces the challenge of dispelling voter concerns and regaining support.
Black Voter Discontent
Black churches and activists are also demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, feeling let down by Biden’s response to the conflict. Some Black voters, who played a significant role in Biden’s victory in 2020, now question his commitment to their community’s issues. Disillusionment among Black voters poses a challenge for Biden’s reelection campaign.
Youth and Progressive Voters
Gen Z and millennial Democratic voters, who turned out in record numbers for Biden in 2020, are also expressing discontent over his Gaza policy. Groups like Gen-Z for Change and the Sunrise Movement have raised concerns about atrocities in Gaza funded by U.S. tax dollars. The lack of response to these concerns may impact volunteer recruitment for the upcoming election.
