Bernie Sanders Urges Support for Kamala Harris Amidst Criticism from Pro-Palestinian Activists

Senator Bernie Sanders made a compelling case for Vice President Kamala Harris on Monday night, addressing the frustrations of pro-Palestinian activists regarding U.S. policy on Israel amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. During a video shared on social media, Sanders emphasized the importance of the upcoming election and the potential ramifications of a Donald Trump victory.

Sanders acknowledged the deep divisions among Americans regarding the Biden administration’s stance on the Gaza war, stating, “I understand that there are millions of Americans who disagree with President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on the terrible war in Gaza. I am one of them.” He reiterated Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas, which he described as a terrorist organization responsible for the horrific attacks on October 7.

Historically, Sanders has been a vocal critic of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, advocating for a reevaluation of U.S. military support. He recently announced plans to propose a Senate resolution aimed at blocking sales of offensive weaponry to Israel. Sanders stressed that while criticism of Harris’s stance on Gaza is valid, voting for her is crucial to avoid a more extreme political landscape.

“Some of you are saying, how can I vote for Kamala Harris if she is supporting this terrible war? And that is a very fair question,” he acknowledged, referencing the devastating toll the conflict has taken on Palestinian civilians. Harris has previously called for a temporary ceasefire and supports a two-state solution, yet she has faced ongoing pressure from activists to distance herself from Biden’s policies.

Sanders articulated hope for Harris’s potential to evolve in her stance, saying, “I promise you, after Kamala wins, we will together do everything that we can to change U.S. policy toward Netanyahu.” He outlined a vision for immediate ceasefires, humanitarian aid for Gaza, and addressing settler violence in the West Bank.

However, the Vermont senator didn’t shy away from highlighting the stakes of the election. He portrayed Trump as a significant threat, stating, “Donald Trump and his right-wing friends are worse.” Trump has publicly praised Netanyahu’s leadership and suggested that Gaza could serve as prime real estate, remarks that Sanders called out as troubling.

Sanders’s video was released shortly after Trump’s controversial rally at Madison Square Garden, where the former president faced backlash for his inflammatory comments and behavior. Reflecting on the rally, Sanders condemned the atmosphere of bigotry and racism, asserting, “We have tried (for years) to fight against bigotry, but that is exactly what we saw on display at that unbelievable Trump rally.” He noted that attacks against Harris were rooted in sexism and racism, questioning, “Is that really the kind of America that we can allow?”

In addressing the broader implications of a potential Trump presidency, Sanders touched upon various critical issues, including climate change and abortion rights. He warned that a Trump victory would effectively end the fight against climate change, emphasizing the urgent need for progressive policies to combat this existential threat.

As the election approaches, Sanders aims to galvanize support for Harris, urging voters to consider the alternatives. He contends that the fight for progressive values hinges on turning out to vote and ensuring that Trump does not reclaim the presidency.

In summary, Sanders’s appeal to support Kamala Harris amid her pro-Palestinian critics underscores the complex dynamics within the Democratic Party and the challenges faced by candidates navigating contentious issues. His insistence on the necessity of unity against a potential Trump resurgence serves as a rallying cry for progressives ahead of the pivotal election.