Most ‘Connected’ American Jews Prefer Israeli Opposition Victory in October Election, Survey Finds

Among American Jews with strong ties to the Jewish community, Israel or Jewish identity, the current opposition holds a clear lead in preference for Israel’s October election, according to a Jewish People Policy Institute survey.

Fifty-four percent of respondents preferred the opposition, while 14% supported the current coalition. Twenty-four percent said it was not their place to express a preference, and 8% had no preference. Although only 8% of those surveyed held Israeli citizenship and could vote, 78% said they followed the election either very or somewhat closely.

Interest rose among respondents eligible to vote in Israel. Ninety-two percent of that group followed election coverage, including 63% who followed it very closely and 29% who followed it somewhat closely.

JPPI President Yedidia Stern said the strong interest reflected Israel’s importance to American Jews in two ways. Israel’s actions can influence how American Jews are perceived in the United States, he said, giving the election practical implications for their status. He also said Israel remains central to the identity of many American Jews and that JPPI surveys indicate the war has strengthened Jewish identity among a substantial part of the community.

The survey panel had a Democratic majority: 62% said they voted for Kamala Harris in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, while 30% said they voted for Donald Trump. The survey did not represent all American Jews. Stern said Jews less connected to the community might not form a group especially distinct from non-connected Jews.

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The strong interest of American Jews in elections in Israel demonstrates the importance of Israel to them.