California Primaries Test Jewish Voters' Political Loyalties on Israel

As California heads into its primaries, several key races are spotlighting the complex relationship between Jewish voters, candidates, and their political allegiances, particularly concerning Israel. These contests are examining how progressive political platforms intersect with support for the Jewish state, with local Jewish groups compiling voter guides tailored to these specific concerns.

One closely watched race is the Los Angeles mayoral contest, where incumbent Mayor Karen Bass faces challenges, including from LA City Council member Nithya Raman. Raman has drawn criticism for appearing with left-wing anti-Israel streamer Hasan Piker and has been compared to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. For some Jewish Angelenos, Raman's vocal criticism of Israel is a significant concern, leading some to consider backing reality-TV star Spencer Pratt, despite his past associations with conspiracy theorist Alex Jones.

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A Raman mayorship would make every Jewish Angeleno less safe.

Sam Yebri, a political activist involved with Thrive LA and AIPAC, stated, "A Raman mayorship would make every Jewish Angeleno less safe." He cited Raman's association with Piker as a primary objection. Pratt himself has also voiced opposition, saying, "I would never sit next to somebody who has no problems with Jews getting attacked." Raman's absence at a recent City Council meeting celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month also fueled negative sentiment among some Jewish voters.

While Mamdani is described as anti-Zionist, Raman asserts her support for Israel's right to exist and opposes the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. However, her local Democratic Socialists of America chapter has since condemned her for more moderate stances on Israel, illustrating the internal party divisions on the issue. The dynamics of these races are being closely observed as indicators of progressive voters' evolving views on Israel, with the top two vote-getters in each race advancing to the general election in November.

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I would never sit next to somebody who has no problems with Jews getting attacked.