Ocasio-Cortez Loses the Democratic Socialists’ Endorsement Over Israel

The Democratic Socialists of America pulled its endorsement of Representative Alexandria-Ocasio Cortez of New York this week, accusing the progressive congresswoman of being insufficiently supportive of the Palestinian cause and efforts to end the war in Gaza.

In a lengthy statement on Wednesday, the group took particular issue with her sponsorship of a recent event with Jewish leaders focused on combating antisemitism, calling it a “deep betrayal.”

The decision was a striking break between the socialist group’s national political committee and arguably its most influential ally in Congress. But it was not entirely unexpected at a time when Israel’s war with Hamas has fractured the left and exposed clashing visions over how to accumulate influence.

There is little question that Ms. Ocasio-Cortez, 34, has been one of Israel’s sharpest critics in Congress, leading the push to halt American military aid to Israel and accusing the nation of committing genocide in Gaza. Those positions have drawn sharp critiques, and accusations of antisemitism, from supporters of Israel.

But the congresswoman has also increasingly rejected what she privately views as a self-defeating push for political purity by some on the left, arguing that it cannot achieve its policy objectives related to Israel or domestic issues without broadening its appeal and political power.

She has emerged as an outspoken surrogate for President Biden, a figure many fellow socialists have condemned as a warmonger. She has also carefully calibrated her messaging around the war in Gaza, declining to take some positions that have inflamed Jewish Americans.