Obama's legacy, ideological shift - and the crisis of the historic alliance: The Democratic Party distances itself from Israel | Dr. Eitan Lesri
Dr. Eitan Lesri analyzes the growing distancing of the Democratic Party from Israel, citing a Gallup poll (February 2025) in which only 33% of Democrats express a favorable view of Israel, compared to 83% of Republicans. The article attributes the change to Obama's speech in Belfast and to ideological and generational shifts within the party.
Dr. Eitan Lesri analyzes the growing distancing of the Democratic Party from Israel, focusing on an ideological and generational shift. The article notes that a Gallup poll from February 2025 found a negative record of 33% Democratic support for Israel, compared to 83% among Republicans. Lesri attributes the turning point to the Obama presidency, citing his speech in Belfast where he described Zionist settlement as 'taking land.' He further notes that the pro-Israel establishment camp in the party has shrunk from 93 to about 88 members, while the progressive wing has grown from 24 to 32. The article warns that the party's center is adopting a more conditional approach toward Israel, and that the younger generation views the conflict through a prism of power relations. Lesri calls on Israel to invest in dialogue with Democrats and not rely solely on Republicans.