Poll: 67% of US Jews to Vote Democratic in Midterms
A new poll indicates that 67% of American Jews plan to vote for the Democratic Party in the upcoming midterm congressional elections, while 26% intend to vote Republican. The survey, conducted by the "Resource Center for Jewish Voters" and released this week, also found that 75% of Jewish voters are dissatisfied with former President Donald Trump, compared to 25% who are satisfied. The midterms, scheduled for November 3rd, will elect all 435 members of the House of Representatives and one-third of the Senate.
According to Jim Gerstein of GBAO Strategies, which conducted the poll, key motivations for Jewish voters include "democracy, the cost of living, and deep animosity towards Donald Trump." He stated that for many Jewish voters, the election's goal is to "stop Trump."
Support for Israel among Democratic Party supporters has reportedly declined significantly in recent years. The poll noted the election of candidates with stances similar to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, some of whom have accused Israel of genocide in the Gaza war. These candidates have also heavily criticized the pro-Israel lobby group AIPAC, accusing it of donating millions to favored candidates.
In April, a majority of Democratic House members abstained from approving certain arms sales to Israel, and in July, most supported halting U.S. aid to Israel. The poll also revealed that 89% of Jewish voters are concerned about antisemitism in the United States. While 61% believe Trump is good for Israel, 50% consider him antisemitic and 71% view him as racist.
Regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, 67% of respondents expressed a negative opinion, with 27% holding a positive view. A significant 65% oppose Netanyahu's policies in Gaza and the West Bank, while 35% support them. Gerstein observed that while American Jews remain emotionally connected to Israel, they oppose Netanyahu and his policies, though this is a secondary voting concern. A primary concern highlighted by the poll is the "overwhelming majority expressing concern about Trump's potential refusal to accept election results."
