Less than half of Milwaukee Jews identify as Zionists despite strong Israel ties, survey finds

A recent survey conducted by the Milwaukee Jewish Federation reveals evolving perspectives on Zionism within the city's Jewish community. The study found that 43% of Jewish adults identify as Zionist, while a nearly equal 42% stated they do not. This contrasts with a stronger emotional connection, as 69% of respondents reported feeling somewhat or very "emotionally attached to Israel."

These findings align with a growing number of similar surveys from Jewish groups across North America, indicating a complex and sometimes contradictory relationship with Israel among American Jews. A February survey by Jewish Federations of North America, for instance, found only 37% identifying as Zionist, even as 88% believed in Israel's right to exist as a Jewish, democratic state.

“

What I needed to overcome and understand is that, as a brand, it’s tarnished. The word, she said, “is tainted.”

Miryam Rosenzweig, president and CEO of the Milwaukee federation, acknowledged the shift in perception. She noted that while she once had a "knee-jerk reaction" to the word "Zionist," she has come to understand that "as a brand, it’s tarnished" and "the word... is tainted." However, Rosenzweig emphasized that for her community, "the values are still there."

The survey, which included 980 families and was conducted between December 2024 and March 2025, took place during a period of heightened criticism over Israel's handling of the war in Gaza. Researchers from Brandeis University and the University of Chicago's NORC social research firm conducted the study, which has an overall margin of error of 6.5%.

“

Yet, Rosenzweig insisted, for her Jewish community, “the values are still there.”