Today, Explained How Israel is upending Democratic races
24 snips
Mar 5, 2024 
Melanie Mason, a California politics expert from Politico, and Ross Barkin, a political writer for the New York Times Magazine, dive into the impact of Israel on U.S. Democratic races. They discuss how California's Senate primary is influenced by candidates addressing the Israel-Palestine conflict. The conversation explores the evolving divide within the Democratic Party over Israel's military actions and the growing clout of younger progressives challenging traditional views. Additionally, they address financial interests shaping campaign dynamics and AIPAC's role in primary elections.
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Schiff's Strategy
- Adam Schiff, leveraging his notoriety as a Trump antagonist, is the frontrunner in California's Senate race.
- He uses his ample campaign funds to run ads seemingly against Republican Steve Garvey, but strategically boosting Garvey's name recognition.
California Primary System
- California's top-two primary system allows two candidates from the same party to advance to the general election.
- This system, combined with Schiff's strategy, makes a Schiff-Garvey matchup likely, favoring Schiff in the blue state.
Policy Differences
- While policy differences are minimal among the Democratic candidates, stances on earmarks and the Israel-Hamas war distinguish them.
- Katie Porter opposes earmarks, while Schiff and Lee support them; Lee calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, Schiff opposes it, and Porter occupies a middle ground.