US Midterm elections: Progressive Democrats critical of Israel seek greater influence in congress

Several progressive Democratic candidates sharply critical of Israel are seeking seats in the US House of Representatives this week, potentially strengthening calls for changes to Washington’s support for Israel.

Among them is Brad Lander, a candidate in New York’s 10th Congressional District. Lander was recently detained by Israeli troops after the military said he entered a closed military zone in the West Bank.

If elected, he could return to the region as a member of Congress.

Asked in a CBS interview to substantiate his allegation that “ethnic cleansing” was taking place in the West Bank, Lander replied: “I’m telling you, that’s what I saw.”

Another candidate, New York’s Daryeliza Avila Chevalier, was involved in leading student protests at Columbia University. She has criticized US support for Israel, highlighting the funding and weapons Washington provides to the Israeli government.

Other activists in California and Michigan have called for sanctions, support for the boycott, divestment and sanctions movement, and an end to US military and economic aid to Israel.

In New Jersey, congressional candidate Dr. Adam Hamawy has drawn on his experience providing medical care in Gaza during the war to challenge US policy. Advocating in Washington, he declared: “This is what we are doing with our tax dollars.”

The candidates’ campaigns reflect a broader push within the Democratic Party’s progressive wing to place conditions on, or end, US support for Israel. Electoral gains could give that wing greater influence over congressional debate and increase pressure on future Democratic presidential candidates, although its ability to change US policy would depend on support across the party and Congress.