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Rep. Auchincloss Critiques Left’s Attack on Shapiro Over Israel Stance
Representative Jake Auchincloss, a Democrat from Massachusetts, has expressed strong disapproval of what he terms the “overly online left” for their criticisms directed at Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro concerning his Jewish heritage and pro-Israel stance.
Shapiro, who is speculated to be a leading candidate for Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate, recently found himself defending his support for Israel after a decades-old op-ed he wrote resurfaced, igniting controversy within the Democratic Party. This controversy has intensified as some members of the left-wing faction of the party have mounted campaigns against his candidacy, such as the “No Genocide Josh” initiative.
Controversy Surrounding Shapiro’s Past Views
During a discussion on CNN, Auchincloss condemned the different standards applied to Shapiro compared to other vice presidential candidates, suggesting that antisemitism is subtly influencing criticism of Shapiro’s views. He emphasized that all candidates should be scrutinized based on their policy positions and past performances without bias based on their religion.
“Those in the overly online left who are attacking Josh Shapiro’s pro-Israel positions in a different way than they are attacking non-Jewish veep contenders’ positions, they’re just telling on themselves,” Auchincloss remarked. “It’s unacceptable. Holding him to a different standard because of his religion is not who we are in the Democratic Party.”
Support from Fellow Jewish Lawmakers
Auchincloss is not alone in his sentiments. Representative Greg Landsman from Ohio has also voiced concerns regarding the implications of assuming Jewish lawmakers lack objectivity on Israel. Landsman pointed out that criticism on these grounds is both unfair and generalized.
“I think there is that sense that somehow we’re not objective on Israel because we’re Jewish, which is just not true or fair,” Landsman stated, highlighting the personal impact that the criticism has on Jewish politicians.
Shapiro’s Evolving Perspective on the Israel-Palestine Conflict
The controversial op-ed, penned when Shapiro was a college student, expressed his views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which included a belief that Palestinians would struggle to achieve peace without the capabilities to establish a successful state. However, Shapiro’s office has clarified that his views have significantly evolved over the years.
Manuel Bonder, Shapiro’s spokesman, indicated that the governor has since formed deep connections with various community leaders and has embraced a more nuanced position regarding the Middle East. “The Governor greatly values their perspectives and the experiences he has learned from over the years — and as a result, his views on the Middle East have evolved,” Bonder stated.
Today, Shapiro advocates for a two-state solution, emphasizing the necessity of continued dialogue and mutual respect between Israelis and Palestinians. He also condemned rising antisemitism following events like the October 7 attacks, which led to protests throughout U.S. campuses.
Shapiro’s Ongoing Advocacy and Political Positioning
Shapiro has firmly denounced acts of antisemitism, labeling certain protests as unacceptable and reminiscent of darker historical periods. Furthermore, he has expressed solidarity with Israel’s right to defend itself, while also recognizing the human toll of the ongoing conflict, urging for a balanced approach to a lasting peace.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Shapiro’s stance and the scrutiny he faces will be key topics of discussion, particularly in relation to his potential candidacy as vice president. The announcement regarding Harris’ choice is anticipated to occur at a rally in Philadelphia.
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