Ex-Clinton Adviser Criticizes Harris for Lack of Commitment to Israel and Combating Antisemitism

Doug Schoen, a former adviser to President Bill Clinton, has voiced his hesitation about supporting Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, citing her lack of strong commitment to Israel and combating antisemitism. In an interview with Fox News, Schoen stated that he is “undecided” in the 2024 presidential race, expressing concern about Harris's shifting positions on Israel and the Middle East.

“At this point, I cannot [vote for Harris],” Schoen said. “I would call myself undecided, but I can’t vote for her due to her changing position and also her stance on the Middle East. I do not believe she is sufficiently committed to Israel and fighting antisemitism.”

Schoen has previously criticized the Biden administration for its handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict, particularly the pressure from the left wing of the Democratic Party to take a more adversarial stance toward Israel. He warned that this drift within the party undermines Israel's strategic importance and could fuel rising antisemitism.

In an op-ed, Schoen argued that the Biden administration’s decision to halt certain arms transfers to Israel hindered the country’s ability to fight Hamas and called the move “politically motivated.”

Harris has faced scrutiny for her close ties to the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, which has been increasingly critical of Israel. Though she has voiced support for Israel’s right to self-defense, Harris has also expressed sympathy for pro-Palestinian activists and far-left narratives that label Israel as “genocidal.” She has been criticized for her comments on Gaza, where she claimed Israel withheld aid, leading to famine, a narrative that has been disputed.

Some political observers have noted that Harris could adopt a more critical stance toward Israel than President Joe Biden. In December, she reportedly urged the White House to be more sympathetic toward Palestinians and to take a tougher stance on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

However, in her speech at the Democratic National Convention, Harris reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring Israel’s security and vowed that her administration would provide Israel with the necessary arms to defend itself against terrorist threats.

As the 2024 election approaches, Harris’s positions on Israel and antisemitism will likely remain key concerns for voters like Schoen and other supporters of the Jewish state.

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