Pro-Israel Congressman Brad Schneider Battles Rising Anti-Israel Sentiment in Democratic Party

Brad Schneider, a Democratic congressman and longtime prominent supporter of Israel, has become a focal point of pro-Palestinian protests and anti-Israel sentiment within the Democratic Party. In an interview with N12 magazine, Schneider criticized the growing influence of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), an extreme left-wing faction gaining traction in Democratic primaries with anti-Israel positions. He described the DSA as a threat to the party’s unity and Israel’s support, accusing some activists of focusing on Israel’s destruction rather than Palestinian rights.

Schneider highlighted recent primary victories by candidates with anti-Israel stances, such as Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan and others in New York and Colorado, all linked to the DSA. He warned that anti-Israel rhetoric is increasingly used as a political tool to signal left-wing credentials and to push broader progressive agendas. Schneider leads the New Democrat Coalition, a moderate Democratic bloc with over 100 members, aiming to counterbalance the DSA’s influence and maintain centrist policies including strong US-Israel ties.

While firmly pro-Israel, Schneider also criticized the current Israeli government, particularly leaders like Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, for rhetoric and actions that harm Israel’s standing in Washington and fuel negative American perceptions. He attributed much of the partisan divide over Israel in US politics to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s close ties with Republicans and confrontations with Democratic presidents.

Schneider expressed hope that the next Israeli government will restore bipartisan support and promote peace in the Middle East. He also raised alarm over rising antisemitism in the US, citing a 2025 ADL report showing record physical attacks on Jews, and warned that unchecked hatred threatens not only Jews but other groups as well. He stressed the need for vigilance and daily efforts to combat antisemitism and maintain Israel’s security and US alliance.