Why Liberal Jews Are Right to Feel Worried About Kamala Harris Bypassing Josh Shapiro
The recent decision by Kamala Harris to choose Tim Walz as her vice-presidential running mate over Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has sparked concern among many liberal Jewish-Americans. While Harris’s choice may have been driven by electoral calculations, these decisions are perceived by some as having underlying antisemitic assumptions about the electorate. This article delves into the reasons behind these worries, explores the reactions from the Jewish-American community, and examines the broader implications of this decision.
Harris’s VP Choice and Its Impact
The Decision and Initial Reactions
When Kamala Harris announced Tim Walz as her vice-presidential pick, it sent ripples through various communities, particularly among Jewish-Americans. A prominent Jewish-American doctor, who identifies as a moderate, expressed her sadness over this decision. For her, and many others, bypassing Shapiro seemed to suggest a reluctance to stand up to antisemitic forces. This perception has intensified the existing unease within the community.
Electoral Calculations or Antisemitic Undertones?
While some argue that choosing Walz over Shapiro was a strategic move to appeal to a broader electorate, others see it as caving to antisemitic pressures. Walz, a Midwestern governor with a folksy charm, brings different electoral advantages compared to Shapiro’s coastal polish. However, the decision has been interpreted by some as a concession to those who oppose Shapiro’s strong Jewish identity and his positions on Israel.
The Role of Antisemitism in Political Decisions
Historical Context of Antisemitism in Politics
Antisemitism has a long and troubling history in American politics. The idea that a Jewish candidate would automatically want to talk more about Israel simply because of their faith perpetuates ugly stereotypes of dual loyalty. This decision comes on the heels of a progressive social-media campaign that labeled Shapiro as “Genocide Josh” due to his standard Democratic stance on Israel, which is sharply anti-Netanyahu.
Liberal Jewish-Americans’ Unease
Many liberal Jewish-Americans feel a growing sense of unease. Despite Harris’s significant support from Jewish figures in Hollywood and beyond, the decision to bypass Shapiro has left a tinge of discomfort. As one Hollywood producer noted, while they remain supportive of Harris and Walz, there’s a persistent question of why Shapiro wasn’t chosen.
The Broader Implications for Jewish-American Voters
The Perception of Antisemitic Concessions
The decision to bypass Shapiro has led some Jewish-Americans to feel that their concerns about antisemitism are not being adequately addressed. This sentiment was echoed by Florida Democrat Jared Moskowitz, who pointed out that Shapiro’s stance on Israel is similar to other non-Jewish contenders, yet he is held to a different standard.
The Impact on Jewish Support for Harris
While many Jewish-Americans continue to support Harris, the decision has led to a sense of betrayal for some. The unease stems from a fear that antisemitic forces are influencing political decisions and that the Jewish community’s concerns are being overlooked. This has made it difficult for some liberal Jews to reconcile their political affiliations with their community’s interests.
Potential Repercussions and Future Considerations
The Importance of Representation
A Jewish vice president would have been a significant milestone, signaling progress for the Jewish community in America. It would also have provided an opportunity to address antisemitism more openly and directly. However, the decision to choose Walz over Shapiro has left many feeling that this opportunity was missed.
Moving Forward: Addressing Antisemitism in Politics
To address these concerns, it is crucial for political leaders to actively combat antisemitism and ensure that their decisions do not perpetuate harmful stereotypes. This includes standing up against antisemitic attacks and ensuring that Jewish candidates are judged on their merits rather than their faith.
Kamala Harris’s decision to choose Tim Walz over Josh Shapiro has raised significant concerns among liberal Jewish-Americans. While the decision may have been driven by electoral considerations, it has also highlighted the persistent issue of antisemitism in politics. As the Jewish community continues to navigate these challenges, it is essential for political leaders to address these concerns and work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.
