The upcoming election in Pittsburgh and some suburbs is serving as a test to see if Israel’s war with Hamas poses a political threat to progressive Democrats in Congress who have criticized how the conflict is being handled. U.S. Rep. Summer Lee, aligned with “the squad,” is being challenged by Bhavini Patel, with the war becoming a key issue in their race. Patel argues that Lee’s criticism of Israel is too extreme for the district and potentially damaging to Democratic President Joe Biden’s reelection chances in a crucial state. However, Lee has worked to move calls for a cease-fire in Gaza into the mainstream of the Democratic Party.
The war in Israel has stirred up Democratic politics across the U.S., dividing traditionally progressive groups, including Pittsburgh’s Jewish community. Lee’s district is especially impacted by the issue, as it is home to the synagogue where a mass shooting occurred in 2018. The outcome of the April 23 primary could reveal whether the war could be enough to turn a significant number of Democrats against Lee. This election is particularly crucial as it would be the first time a Democratic incumbent lost a primary this year.
Lee has raised more money than Patel and garnered support from Pennsylvania’s Democratic establishment and various progressive groups. She has positioned herself as a hardworking representative who advocates for marginalized communities. On the Israel-Hamas war, Lee has condemned Hamas’ attacks but also accused Israel of committing war crimes. She has called for an end to U.S. military aid to Israel and advocated for a cease-fire as a way to end violence and work towards peace, differing from Biden’s stance and that of most House Democrats.
Patel, a municipal councilwoman of Indian heritage, has gained support in the Jewish community and criticized Lee for aligning with those who protest Biden’s handling of the war by voting “uncommitted.” Patel believes this stance could jeopardize Democratic support in the district. Lee defended the “uncommitted” movement, stating it’s important not to discourage voters, especially as Democrats aim to persuade voters to support Biden in the presidential election. Lee has faced accusations of aligning more closely with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu than with Biden.
While the Israel-Hamas war has been a debated topic between Lee and Patel, it hasn’t been a significant focus in the race otherwise. Pro-Israel groups that previously tried to defeat Lee have not gotten involved, and the issue has been limited to discussions rather than campaign ads or significant interventions. Potential support for Lee could come from college students, who are back on campus this year and have mostly expressed support for a cease-fire. In one instance of shifting views, the 14th Ward Independent Democratic Club, which supported Lee previously, has now endorsed Patel, reflecting divisions in the community over the issue.
Some Jewish Democrats have expressed concerns about Lee’s stance on the war and fear that her politics could lead to Trump’s victory and increased anti-Semitism. While some constituents feel Lee has abandoned the Jewish community, others support her efforts for a cease-fire and her criticisms of Israel’s actions. The election outcome will shed light on whether the war alone is enough to impact Lee’s candidacy and could indicate broader changes within the Democratic Party on issues related to Israel and progressive politics.
