DSA Revokes Endorsement of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Over Anti-Semitism Concerns

The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) has made the decision to revoke its endorsement of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the prominent progressive Congresswoman from New York, citing concerns related to her stance on anti-Semitism. This move comes shortly after the initial conditional endorsement was granted to Ocasio-Cortez by the DSA.

The DSA’s decision was driven by several factors, including Ocasio-Cortez’s previous votes in Congress, notably her support for strengthening the Iron Dome defense system. Additionally, the DSA expressed dissatisfaction with a panel on combating anti-Semitism that Ocasio-Cortez hosted with leaders from the Jewish Council for Public Affairs.

According to the DSA, Ocasio-Cortez’s apparent conflation of anti-Zionism with anti-Semitism during the panel, as well as her disapproval of boycotting Zionist institutions, conflicted with the DSA’s views on the matter.

Despite the revocation of the national endorsement, Ocasio-Cortez still retains the support of the DSA’s New York City chapter, ensuring that she will continue to represent her constituents in the House of Representatives.

Ocasio-Cortez has been a vocal critic of Israel’s policies, particularly in relation to its conflict with Hamas. Her comments accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza earlier this year were met with mixed reactions both within and outside of her party.

Last year, the DSA faced backlash after promoting a rally in New York City, following a deadly Hamas attack on Israel. The organization later apologized for its involvement in the event that included anti-Semitic imagery.

Amanda Berman, the founder of Zioness, an organization advocating for progressive Zionism, condemned the DSA’s decision, accusing the group of displaying anti-Jewish sentiments and stifling conversations about anti-Semitism.