Anadolu columnist: Disputes over Israel may affect US congressional elections
In the United States, ahead of the midterm congressional elections in November, the position on Israel has become one of the main factors in internal disputes among Republicans and Democrats. In a column for Anadolu Agency, American scholar Adam McConnell believes that the parties’ ability to rethink their policy toward Israel may affect the struggle for control of Congress.
Challenges for Republicans
The author notes that the parties of incumbent US presidents usually perform poorly in midterm elections. In his view, Donald Trump’s low approval ratings and his unpredictable decision-making style create both risks and advantages for the Republican Party.
Some Republican candidates, McConnell argues, may expect better results by distancing themselves from the president. At the same time, a significant group of former prominent Trump supporters has broken with him over US policy toward Israel. According to the author, similar sentiments are also widespread among younger Republican voters.
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Differences among Democrats
Democrats, in the author’s view, have not overcome their internal split following their defeat in the 2024 presidential election and the loss of control of the House of Representatives. He describes a conflict between younger politicians and representatives of the party’s older generation, as well as Democrats’ difficulties in demonstrating unity ahead of the vote.
According to McConnell’s account, differences over support for Israel are particularly noticeable. Older and moderate Democrats seek to preserve the party’s traditional support for Israel, while younger and progressive representatives advocate ending US assistance to that country.
A question for both parties
McConnell emphasizes that US policy toward Israel has long been an important issue in American political life, but it has now become a source of sharp disputes within the two largest parties. In his view, the issue combines cultural, military, political, and religious aspects and may determine the balance of power in Congress after the November elections and in the following years.
