The Squad Is Getting Primaried for Standing Against the War
Nov 3, 2023
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This podcast discusses the influence of pro-Israel lobbying groups in shaping US-Israel policy and the generational shift challenging their power. It also explores the response of Arab and Muslim communities to the Biden administration's handling of the Israel-Palestine conflict. Additionally, the podcast delves into potential primary challenges faced by squad members and the need for support in upcoming elections.
The podcast highlights the power of pro-Israel lobbying groups like APAC and DMFI in shaping U.S.-Israel policy and their efforts to oust progressive Democrats like Rashida Tlaib through attack ads and primary challenges.
The podcast discusses the generational shift within the Democratic Party towards a more critical stance on Israel and the importance of grassroots support to counter the well-funded efforts of pro-Israel groups in primary elections.
Deep dives
Democratic Majority for Israel's attack ad against Representative Rashida Tlaib
The podcast episode discusses the failed attempt by House Republicans to center Representative Rashida Tlaib, but highlights the ongoing effort by Democratic Majority for Israel to oust her in a Democratic primary. The organization released an attack ad against Tlaib, criticizing her positions on missile protection for Israel and condemning the attack on Israel by Hamas. The podcast also explores the historical roots of APAC and its influence in American politics, revealing its transformation into a powerful lobbying group and the tactics it has used to ensure unwavering U.S. support for Israel. It discusses the emergence of a new generation of progressive Democrats, including Tlaib and Ilhan Omar, who advocate for a more even-handed approach and challenge traditional pro-Israel policies.
The shifting landscape and challenges faced by progressive Democrats
The podcast delves into the challenges faced by progressive Democrats, particularly those within the squad, who are likely to face primary challenges. It highlights the well-funded efforts by groups like DMFI and APAC to unseat these incumbents, with attack ads and character assassination. The discussion emphasizes the need for support from organizations like Justice Democrats and grassroots movements to counter the substantial resources that would be deployed against progressive candidates. The podcast also notes the changing dynamics within the Democratic Party, with a generational shift leading to a greater emphasis on Palestinian rights and a more critical stance towards Israel.
The power dynamics and influence of money in elections
The podcast examines the power dynamics and influence of money in elections, particularly regarding pro-Israel lobbying groups like APAC and DMFI. It highlights how these groups can mobilize significant financial resources and use attack ads to shape the discourse and outcomes of primary elections. The discussion reveals the pressure put on candidates to conform to a pro-Israel stance and the chilling effect it has on open discussion and criticism of Israeli policies. The podcast also emphasizes the importance of candidates standing up for Palestinian rights and maintaining their principles, even in the face of intense pressure and potential consequences to their fundraising efforts.
Fourteen Democratic senators called for a "short-term cessation of hostilities” on Thursday, as Israel’s airstrikes continued for the fourth week and a ground invasion intensified. So far 18 House members have signed on to a resolution, introduced weeks earlier, with stronger calls for an "immediate de-escalation and ceasefire in Israel and occupied Palestine.” Pro-Israel lobbying groups have already begun efforts to oust House members pushing for a ceasefire. This week on Deconstructed, Democratic strategist Waleed Shahid joins Ryan Grim to discuss the powerful influence of groups like the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and Democratic Majority for Israel in shaping U.S.-Israel policy, the generational shift challenging their power, and how Arab and Muslim communities are responding to the Biden administration’s response to the war.
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