VP Vance Addresses Jewish Republicans Amidst Antisemitism Concerns

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance addressed the Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC) in Las Vegas on Monday, aiming to alleviate concerns about antisemitism and reaffirm the U.S. commitment to Israel. Vance's closed-door remarks at the RJC's two-day conference were intended to foster open dialogue. Attendees expressed mixed reactions, with some feeling reassured about Vance's dedication to the American Jewish community, while others remained confused and disappointed, particularly regarding his refusal to distance himself from controversial figures like Tucker Carlson.

Vance discussed his trips to Israel and his connection to the Israeli people. However, he was not directly questioned about recent remarks suggesting Israeli entities manipulated U.S. public opinion to prolong the war in Iran. He also faced questions about his associations with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, who faced backlash for interviewing antisemitic figure Nick Fuentes. Vance described his podcast appearances as a means to reach a broad audience, regardless of agreement with the host, but clarified his stance on Fuentes, stating he would not engage with someone who attacked his wife or praised Hitler.

Despite Vance's efforts, some attendees voiced disappointment, perceiving his stance on Israel as ambivalent. "We are confused about his true feelings," said Terri Platt, an RJC member. Vance, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, has expressed support for Israel but is seen as more hesitant than Donald Trump. Ron Dermer, a former Israeli minister and advisor to Prime Minister Netanyahu, was present and praised Vance's role in a past confrontation with Iran, stating Vance "played a crucial role." Vance had previously criticized Israeli ministers for opposing Trump's efforts to resolve the Iran conflict and later accused Israeli government elements of attempting to influence American public opinion to prolong the war.

The conference occurred amid rising antisemitism concerns across the political spectrum and ahead of midterm elections. Republicans aim to portray Democrats as hostile to Jews and Israel, while also navigating internal divisions. While many speakers at the conference criticized Democrats and praised the U.S.-Israel alliance, Sid Rosenberg specifically addressed Vance's July remarks on Joe Rogan's podcast, which drew murmurs from the audience. Support for Israel is waning in the U.S., particularly among Democrats, with a significant portion believing Israel committed genocide, an accusation denied by Israel and the U.S. administration. Republicans, while generally more supportive of Israel, show an intergenerational divide, with younger Republicans expressing more skepticism about excessive U.S. support for Israel.