NAMEPARTYINCUMBENT/ CHALLENGERStateIn office sincePro Israel ScorePro Palestine ScoreLIFETIME CONTRIBUTIONS FROM PRO-ISRAEL PACSPAC ENDORSEMENTS/DONATIONS<= SCORES. 2497 US-ISRAEL SECURITY ASSISTANCE AUTHORIZATION 2018<= SCORETAYLOR FORCE ACT IN HR 1625, 2018 CONSOLIDATED APPROPRIATIONS ACT<= SCORES. 1697 "TAYLOR FORCE ACT" 2017 (STAND-ALONE)<= SCORES.720 ISRAEL ANTI-BOYCOTT ACT 2017<= SCORES. 170 COMBATING BDS ACT 2017<= SCORES.619 - US-ISRAEL TRADE ENHANCEMENT ACT 2015<= SCORES. 2673 US-ISRAEL STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP 2014<= SCORES. 1456 GOLD MEDAL TO (WAR CRIMINAL) SHIMON PERES<= SCORES. RES. 176 50TH ANNIV OF JERUSALEM "REUNIFICATION"<= SCORES. RES 6 OBJECTING TO U.N. SETTLEMENT ABSTENTION 2016<= SCORES. RES.302 SUPPORTS ISRAEL IN TEMPLE MOUNT STRUGGLES<= SCORES.RES 498 SUPPORTS ISRAEL'S RIGHT TO SELF DEFENSE IN 2014 "WAR"<= SCORES.RES 599 SUPPORTS ISRAEL'S RIGHT TO SELF DEFENSE IN 2012 "WAR"<= SCORES. RES 185 PEACE THRU NEGOTIATION ONLY, NO U.N. 2011<= SCORES. RES 138: UN RESCIND GOLDSTONE REPORT ON ISRAEL WARCRIMES<= SCORES.RES 10 SUPPORTS ISRAEL'S RIGHT TO SELF DEFENSE IN 2008-9 "WAR"<= SCORELETTER TO SEC'Y GEN OF U.N. RE: ANTI-ISRAEL BIAS 2017<= SCORELETTER TO OBAMA: OPPOSE U.N. INTERVENTION<= SCORELETTER TO ARMED SVCS CMTE: $320 MIL EXTRA FOR IRON DOME<= SCORELETTER TO OBAMA: BOOST AID TO ISRAEL 2016<= SCORELETTER TO EU, OPPOSING "ANTI-ISRAEL" LABELING GUIDELINES<= SCOREVOTED FOR DAVID FRIEDMAN FOR AMB. TO ISRAEL<= SCOREVOTED FOR NIKKI HALEY FOR US AMB. TO THE U.N.<= SCOREATTENDED WIDELY BOYCOTTED NETANYAHU SPEECH<= SCORECOMMENT ON HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN GAZA 2018 ("SILENCE" means there has been no comment in spite of the horrific humanitarian crisis)
<= SCORECOMMENT ON GREAT MARCH OF RETURN KILLING OF UNARMED PROTESTERS 2018 ("SILENCE" means there has been no comment in spite of the horrific humanitarian crisis)<= SCORECOMMENT ON ANNOUNCEMENT OF JERUSALEM AS CAPITAL/EMBASSY MOVE DEC. 2017, MAY 2018<= SCORECOMMENT ON VILLAGE DEMOLITIONS 2017-18<= SCORECOMMENT ON NOMINATION OF DAVID FRIEDMAN AS AMBASSADOR TO ISRAEL<= SCOREANY COMMENT ON ISRAEL ANTI-BOYCOTT BILLS<= SCORECOMMENT ON UN SETTLEMENT ABSTENTION (RES 2334) 2016<= SCORECOMMENT ON 2014 "WAR"<= SCORECOMMENT ON 2012 "WAR"<= SCORECOMMENT ON PALESTINE JOINING UN (2011-2012)<= SCORECOMMENT ON 2008-9 "WAR"<= SCOREANY COMMENT ON SETTLEMENTS<= SCORECOMMENT ON ISRAEL ANNIVERSARY/OTHER CELEBRATIONS<= SCOREMISC COMMENT<= SCOREMISC COMMENT<= SCOREFURTHER READING
!META-COLGROUPS THE BUCK STOPS RIGHT HERE [$][III] SPONSOR [II] Cosponsor [I] AYE VOTE (N/A INDICATES SENATOR WAS NOT IN OFFICE AT TIME OF BILL)PRO-ISRAEL SIMPLE RESOLUTIONS* [III] SPONSOR [II] Cosponsor [I] AYE VOTE
(N/A INDICATES SENATOR WAS NOT IN OFFICE AT TIME OF BILL)
PRO-ISRAEL, AIPAC-DRIVEN "LETTERS"
[III] INITATED [II] Signed
3 STRONGLY PRO-ISRAEL ACTIONS
[III]
1-3 [I] FOR PRO-ISRAEL STATEMENT 1-3 [P] FOR PRO-PALESTINIAN STATEMENT N/A IF SENATOR WAS NOT IN OFFICE
!META-FULLTITLEPARTYINCUMBENT/ CHALLENGERStateIn office sincePro Israel ScorePro Palestine ScoreLIFETIME CONTRIBUTIONS FROM PRO-ISRAEL PACSPRO-ISRAEL PAC ENDORSEMENTS/DONATIONSS. 2497 US-ISRAEL SECURITY ASSISTANCE AUTHORIZATION 2018 (BACKED BY AIPAC) (VOICE VOTE 8/1/18)VOTED FOR TAYLOR FORCE ACT IN HR 1625, 2018 CONSOLIDATED APPROPRIATIONS ACT (PASSED BY ROLL CALL VOTE 65 - 32 ON 3/23/18)S. 1697 "TAYLOR FORCE ACT" 2017 (BACKED BY AIPAC) (INTRODUCED 8/1/17; NOT VOTED ON)S.720 ISRAEL ANTI-BOYCOTT ACT 2017 (WRITTEN BY AIPAC) (INTRODUCED 3/23/17; NOT VOTED ON)S. 170 COMBATING BDS ACT 2017 (BACKED BY AIPAC) (INTRODUCED 1/17/17; NOT VOTED ON)S.619 - US-ISRAEL TRADE ENHANCEMENT ACT 2015 (BACKED BY AIPAC) (INTRODUCED 3/2/15; NOT VOTED ON)S. 2673 US-ISRAEL STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP 2014 (NOW LAW) (BACKED BY AIPAC) (UNANIMOUS CONSENT 9/18/14)S. 1456 GOLD MEDAL TO (WAR CRIMINAL) SHIMON PERES 2013 (BECAME LAW) (UNANIMOUS CONSENT 3/13/14)S. RES. 176 50TH ANNIV OF JERUSALEM "REUNIFICATION" (2017) (PASSED BY ROLL CALL VOTE ON 90-0 6/5/17)S. RES 6 OBJECTING TO U.N. SETTLEMENT ABSTENTION 2016 (INTRODUCED 1/4/17; NOT VOTED ON)S. RES.302 SUPPORTS ISRAEL IN TEMPLE MOUNT STRUGGLES 2015 (UNANIMOUS CONSENT 11/10/15)S.RES 498 SUPPORTS ISRAEL'S RIGHT TO SELF DEFENSE IN 2014 "WAR" (UNANIMOUS CONSENT 7/17/14)S.RES 599 SUPPORTS ISRAEL'S RIGHT TO SELF DEFENSE IN 2012 "WAR" (UNANIMOUS CONSENT 11/15/12)S. RES 185 PEACE THRU NEGOTIATION ONLY; NO SELF DETERMINATION, NO U.N. 2011 (UNANIMOUS CONSENT 6/28/11)S. RES 138: UN RESCIND GOLDSTONE REPORT ON ISRAEL WARCRIMES 2011 (UNANIMOUS CONSENT 4/14/11)S.RES 10 SUPPORTS ISRAEL'S RIGHT TO SELF DEFENSE IN 2008-9 "WAR" (UNANIMOUS CONSENT 1/8/09)LETTER TO SEC'Y GEN OF U.N. RE: ANTI-ISRAEL BIAS 2017 (SUBMITTED 4/27/17)LETTER TO OBAMA (WRITTEN BY AIPAC): OPPOSE U.N. INTERVENTION (SUBMITTED 9/19/16)LETTER TO ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE CALLING FOR $320 MIL EXTRA FOR IRON DOME (SUBMITTED 7/28/16)LETTER TO OBAMA: BOOST AID TO ISRAEL 2016 (SUBMITTED 4/25/16)LETTER TO EU, OPPOSING "ANTI-ISRAEL" LABELING GUIDELINES (SUBMITTED 11/11/15)VOTED FOR DAVID FRIEDMAN FOR AMBASSADOR TO ISRAEL (3/23/17)VOTED FOR NIKKI HALEY FOR US AMBASSADOR TO THE U.N. (1/24/17)ATTENDED WIDELY BOYCOTTED NETANYAHU SPEECH (3/3/15)COMMENT ON HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN GAZA 2018 ('SILENCE" MEANS THERE HAS BEEN NO COMMENT IN SPITE OF THE HORRIFIC HUMANITARIAN CRISIS)COMMENT ON GREAT MARCH OF RETURN KILLING OF UNARMED PROTESTERS 2018 ("SILENCE" MEANS THERE HAS BEEN NO COMMENT IN SPITE OF 170+ DEATHS, ALMOST 20,000 INJURIES)COMMENT ON ANNOUNCEMENT OF JERUSALEM AS CAPITAL/EMBASSY MOVE DEC. 2017, MAY 2018COMMENT ON VILLAGE DEMOLITIONS 2017-18COMMENT ON NOMINATION OF DAVID FRIEDMAN AS AMBASSADOR TO ISRAELANY COMMENT ON ISRAEL ANTI-BOYCOTT BILLSCOMMENT ON UN SETTLEMENT ABSTENTION (RES 2334) 2016COMMENT ON 2014 "WAR"COMMENT ON 2012 "WAR"COMMENT ON PALESTINE JOINING UN (2011-2012)COMMENT ON 2008-9 "WAR"ANY COMMENT ON SETTLEMENTSCOMMENT ON ISRAEL ANNIVERSARY/OTHER CELEBRATIONSMISC COMMENTMISC COMMENTFURTHER READING ABOUT THE CANDIDATE
!META-SORTINGtexttexttextisoDatepercentpercentcurrencynonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenonenone
!META-IDPARTYSTATUSSTATEINAUGURATIONSCORE-ISCORE-PCONTRIBUTIONSPAC-ENDORSEMETA-SCORES2497 [PRO-I]META-SCOREHR1625 [PRO-I]META-SCORES1697 [PRO-I]META-SCORES720 [PRO-I]META-SCORES170 [PRO-I]META-SCORES619 [PRO-I]META-SCORES2673 [PRO-I]META-SCORES1456 [PRO-I]META-SCORES176 [PRO-I]META-SCORES6 [PRO-I]META-SCORES302 [PRO-I]META-SCORES498 [PRO-I]META-SCORES599 [PRO-I]META-SCORES185 [PRO-I]META-SCORES138 [PRO-I]META-SCORES10 [PRO-I]META-SCORESECGEN-LETTER [PRO-I]META-SCOREOBAMA-LETTER-AIPAC [PRO-I]META-SCOREARMED-SERVICES-LETTER-IRON-DOME [PRO-I]META-SCOREOBAMA-LETTER-BOOST [PRO-I]META-SCOREEU-LETTER-LABELING [PRO-I]META-SCOREDAVID-FREEMAN [PRO-I]META-SCORENIKKI-HALEY [PRO-I]META-SCORENETANYAHU-SPEECH [PRO-I]META-SCORECOMMENT-HUMANITARIAN-CRISIS [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-GREAT-MARCH [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-JERUSALEM-CAPITAL [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-VILLAGE-DEMO [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-DAVID-FRIEDMAN [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-BDS [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-UN-SETTLEMENT [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-2014-WAR [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-2012-WAR [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-PALESTINE-UN [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-2008-WAR [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-SETTLEMENTS [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-ISRAEL-ANNIVERSARY [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-MISC-1 [PRO-X]META-SCORECOMMENT-MISC-2 [PRO-X]META-SCOREMETA-FURTHER-READING
!META-DESCThe scores above were calculated based on the total number of opportunities each candidate had to show support for either side of the conflict. Since incumbents have been in office for varying lengths of time, we’ve given them a fractional score showing the actual number of times they showed their support for one side or the other by sponsoring and/or voting on bills, legislation, etc.The scores above were calculated based on the total number of opportunities each candidate had to show support for either side of the conflict. Since incumbents have been in office for varying lengths of time, we’ve given them a fractional score showing the actual number of times they showed their support for one side or the other by sponsoring and/or voting on bills, legislation, etc.

CONTEXT: According to Open Secrets, the top Senate recipient of donations from pro-Israel PACs is Hillary Clinton, with $2,473,367; the lowest is Dirk Kempthorne - Senator from Idaho from 1993-1999 - with $500. All donations took place between 1989 and the current cycle. Data for the current cycle were released by the Federal Election Commission on Tuesday, August 21, 2018. This information is from the Center for Responsive Politics. SOURCE

SCORING KEY FOR PAC ENDORSEMENTS:
(4 points for first PAC, 1 point for each additional)

A political action committee (PAC) is an organization that raises money privately to influence elections or legislation, especially at the federal level. They endorse candidates and help raise money for them. There are currently 20 pro-Israel PACs. (One PAC - J-Street - is supportive of some pro-Palestinian positions. Any politician endorsed by J-Street receives one pro-Palestine point and one pro-Israel point. For more info on J-Street, click on the endorsement box for any candidate with a Palestine badge.)

The 20 pro-Israel PACS are
1. J-Street
2. NorPAC
3. Republican Jewish Coalition
4. Florida Congressional Committee
5. Citizens Organized PAC
6. Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs
7. National Action Committee
8. Desert Caucus
9. Bi-County PAC
10. Friends of Israel
11. SunPAC
12. American Principles
13. Maryland Association for Concerned Citizens
14. To Protect Our Heritage PAC
15. Americans United in Support of Democracy
16. Heartland PAC
17. Washington PAC
18. National PAC
19. Louisiana for American Security
20. Grand Canyon State Caucus

SOURCE


Further Reading

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE BILLS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

4 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
3 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
2 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

BACKGROUND: On August 16, 2007, the US and Israel Signed a ten-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on US military assistance to Israel. The total assistance over the course of this understanding would equal $30,000,000,000. SOURCE


The 2016 MOU reflected grant assistance to Israel from fiscal year 2019 to fiscal year 2028 at a level of $3,300,000,000 annually, totaling $33,000,000,000, the largest single pledge of military assistance ever and a reiteration of the seven-decade, unshakeable, bipartisan commitment of the United States to Israel’s security. The MOU also reflected US support for funding for cooperative programs to develop, produce, and procure missile, rocket, and projectile defense capabilities from FY 2019 to FY 2028 at a level of $500,000,000 per year, totaling $5,000,000,000.


This was a Memorandum of Understanding – a non-binding agreement. Currently Congress is considering legislation to make it law (and even more pro-Israel) : S.2497 – United States-Israel Security Assistance Authorization Act of 2018.


Further Reading

Read the bill here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE BILLS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

4 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
3 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
2 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

The Taylor Force Act worked its way through Congress over the course of 13 months. Finally it passed in March 2018, tucked away inside an omnibus spending bill. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, self-proclaimed “guardian of Israel" (not of the US) had promised to do “everything possible" to help get the Taylor Force Act through, preferably by unanimous consent. SOURCE


Our Congress knows how the program works, but refuses to accept it: Sen. Blunt (R-MO) declared, “This is not a welfare system, but a so-called martyr system and we shouldn’t allow the killers and ruthless attackers to be recognized as martyrs in a system that we are part of." The noteworthy – and unspoken – other side of the coin is American aid to Israel, which continues unimpeded, regardless of Israel’s actions. $10 million a day from the US bankrolls the occupation and blockade, its high-tech wars against the unarmed population of Gaza, and ongoing human rights abuses. SOURCE


Further Reading

Read the bill here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE BILLS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

4 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
3 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
2 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

The Taylor Force Act (now law) grew out of one of the most misunderstood practices of the Palestinian Authority: the provision of financial assistance to widows and children of those killed or imprisoned by Israeli forces. Israel calls it "pay to slay" and insists that it incentivizes terrorism. This characterization dehumanizes Palestinians. Please read about this important social safety net program here. SOURCE


Yet the U.S. has not cut aid to Israel after 50 years of West Bank occupation, numerous unlawful killings or beatings, even of American citizens.

While voting against the Taylor Force Act may represent concern for Palestinians, in some cases the vote may actually represent a pro-Israel motivation. Some Israeli officials and pro-Israel Americans opposed the Taylor Force Act out of concern that it will harm Israel by undermining the Palestinian Authority, which often takes actions useful to Israel.
SOURCE


Further Reading

Read the bill here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE BILLS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

4 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
3 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
2 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

This bill does not use the word "settlement," but legitimizing settlement-made products as "Israeli" is one of its main objectives. S720 opposes calls by the United Nations or the EU to boycott or “blacklist" companies that support Israeli activities in the territories occupied in the 1967 war. The bill further prohibits any US person from supporting this UN call to boycott and establishes stiff fines and/or imprisonment for Americans who violate this prohibition. SOURCE


According to The Hill, this legislation was written by AIPAC. It makes it criminal to heed calls from non-state actors (like the UN) to boycott. The maximum civil penalty is $1 million and maximum prison sentence is 20 years. As the ACLU makes clear, the bill makes no distinction between doing business with Israel and doing business with companies that are part of the occupation. SOURCE


Further Reading

Read the bill here.
SCORING KEY FOR SENATE BILLS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

4 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
3 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
2 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

"A State or local government may adopt and enforce measures...to divest the assets of the State or local government from, prohibit investment of the assets of the State or local government in, or restrict contracting... an entity that the State or local government determines, using credible information available to the public, knowingly engages in a commerce-related or investment-related boycott, divestment, or sanctions activity targeting Israel." SOURCE

Read the bill here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE BILLS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

4 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
3 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
2 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

Primary purpose is to discourage economic pressure targeting settlements and the occupation (and lay groundwork for imposing sanctions against those who engage in such actions. Strongly lobbied by AIPAC (Cardin announced plans to introduce the bill from dais during the 2015 AIPAC policy conference). SOURCE


Further Reading

Read the bill here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE BILLS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

4 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
3 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
2 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

Expresses the sense of Congress that Israel is a major U.S. strategic partner. Some possible actions: providing Israel with defense articles and defense services, including missile and joint missile defense capabilities; expanding U.S.-Israel cyber cooperation; cooperation in the fields of energy, water, agriculture, and alternative fuel technologies; exchanging research, technology, intelligence, information, equipment, and personnel that will advance U.S. national security interests; any sale or export of major defense equipment to a country in the Middle East may not adversely affect Israel's qualitative military edge. SOURCE


Further Reading

Read the bill here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE BILLS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

4 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
3 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
2 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

Shimon Peres was a member of the pre-state Haganah, the militia primarily responsible for the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian villages. Though the Nakba is a matter of historical record, Peres insisted that Zionist forces “upheld the purity of arms," and even claimed that before Israel existed, “there was nothing here." In the 1950s, he worked in the defense ministry, and was “an architect of Israel’s nuclear weapons program" which, to this day, “remains outside the scrutiny of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)." Following the 1967 war, his slogan was "Settlements everywhere." SOURCE


In 1996, as part of Operation Grapes of Wrath, Peres ordered the Qana massacre, when Israel shelled a UN compound in Lebanon, killing 106 civilians. Afterwards he said, “I am at peace." Peres has consistently backed collective punishment and military brutality. During Operation Cast Lead, Peres described the “national solidarity behind the military operation" as “Israel’s finest hour." SOURCE


Further Reading

Read the bill here.
SCORING KEY FOR SENATE RESOLUTIONS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

3 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
1 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
1 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

The anniversary of the "reunification" of Jerusalem is also the anniversary of the occupation of the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza. In the eyes of Palestinians, it was not a reunification, but a loss. The celebration of this day by Americans signals the invisibility or nonexistence of Palestinians.
Further Reading

Read the text here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE RESOLUTIONS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

3 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
1 pro-Israel points for voting Yay where there was a roll call vote
1 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

Background (Summary of resolution): "Objects to U.N. Security Council Resolution 2334. Such resolution characterizes Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem as illegal and demands cessation of settlement activities...Urges: (1) the U.S. presidential Administrations to uphold the practice of vetoing all Security Council resolutions that recognize unilateral Palestinian actions...and (2) the incoming presidential Administration to... facilitate the resumption of negotiations without preconditions..." SOURCE


Further Reading

Read the text of the resolution here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE RESOLUTIONS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

3 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
1 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
1 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

September 2015 saw an increase in extremist Jewish groups visiting a strictly Muslim holy place in Jerusalem, which caused Palestinians to fear that Israel was about to start allowing Jewish worship at the shrine. Israel banned Palestinian Islamist groups that protested against the visits. Many analysts regard this issue of access as key to the increase in tension in the fall of 2015, as Jerusalem saw a spike in street attacks. 36 Israelis and 2 Americans were killed in Palestinian attacks; 222 Palestinians were killed between September and December 2015. SOURCE


Wording of the bill includes: Whereas President Abbas has helped to fuel the current violence in recent weeks by falsely casting Israel as the brutal aggressor in multiple public speeches, refusing to condemn the lethal terror attacks, and failing to acknowledge Israel’s right to self-defense; whereas Israel has in recent weeks been subjected to an alarming wave of terrorism directed against innocent civilians by Palestinians armed with knives, meat cleavers, guns, and cars; whereas there have been approximately 69 such attacks since the beginning of October 2015, leaving 11 Israelis dead and another 145 wounded. SOURCE


Further Reading

Read the text of the resolution here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE RESOLUTIONS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

3 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
1 pro-Israel points for voting Yay where there was a roll call vote
1 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

*"S. Res" or "Sense of" resolutions are non-binding resolutions typically used for: going on the record regarding a particular policy or concept; an attempt by some members to persuade other members to support their cause; an attempt to get the president to take/not take some specific action; to express an opinion to the gov't of a foreign nation; or as a formal Thank You note.


Background: In 2014, Israel attacked Gaza with the declared purpose of stopping "unprovoked" rocket attacks (this was the 3rd such attack since 2008), although Israel had provoked Gaza by imposing a brutal blockade since 2007, and Israel had already killed approx. 1,600 Palestinians in the previous "wars" to avenge 17 peacetime Israeli rocket deaths in 11 years. The US Senate supported this incursion even though the previous 2 had been bloodbaths. In this "war," 2,200 Palestinians and 73 Israelis were killed.


"Condemns the unprovoked rocket fire at Israel and calls on Hamas to cease all rocket and other attacks against Israel."


Further Reading

Read the resolution here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE RESOLUTIONS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

3 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
1 pro-Israel points for voting Yay where there was a roll call vote
1 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

*"S. Res" or "Sense of" resolutions are non-binding resolutions typically used for: going on the record regarding a particular policy or concept; an attempt by some members to persuade other members to support their cause; an attempt to get the president to take/not take some specific action; to express an opinion to the gov't of a foreign nation; or as a formal Thank You note.



Background: In 2012, Israel attacked Gaza with the declared purpose of stopping "unprovoked" rocket attacks (this was the 2nd such attack - the 1st being in 2008-9), although Israel had provoked Gaza by imposing a brutal blockade since 2007, and Israel had already killed over 1,400 Palestinians in the previous "war" to avenge 17 peacetime Israeli rocket deaths in 11 years. The US Senate supported this incursion even though the previous one had been a blood bath. In this "war," 174 Palestinians and 6 Israelis were killed.



Read the resolution here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE RESOLUTIONS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

3 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
1 pro-Israel points for voting Yay where there was a roll call vote
1 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

*"S. Res" or "Sense of" resolutions are non-binding resolutions typically used for: going on the record regarding a particular policy or concept; an attempt by some members to persuade other members to support their cause; an attempt to get the president to take/not take some specific action; to express an opinion to the gov't of a foreign nation; or as a formal Thank You note.



"Any Palestinian unity government must forswear terrorism, accept Israel's right to exist, and reaffirm previous agreements made with Israel"¦Urges Palestinian leaders to cease efforts at circumventing the negotiation process, including through a unilateral declaration of statehood or by seeking recognition of a Palestinian state from the UN"¦Senate will consider restrictions on aid to the Palestinian Authority (PA) should the PA persist in efforts to circumvent direct negotiations..." SOURCE



Throughout the summer [of 2011] many Israeli politicians seemed to be in a state of near hysteria over the possibility that the Palestinians would seek to gain recognition of a state through the U.N. It is unclear why this was considered such a threat to Israel, except that it might hinder Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu's apparent strategy of pretending to want to negotiate while relentlessly expanding Israeli colonies in the West Bank and Jerusalem. SOURCE



Read the resolution here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE RESOLUTIONS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

3 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
1 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
1 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

*"S. Res" or "Sense of" resolutions are non-binding resolutions typically used for: going on the record regarding a particular policy or concept; an attempt by some members to persuade other members to support their cause; an attempt to get the president to take/not take some specific action; to express an opinion to the gov't of a foreign nation; or as a formal Thank You note.



See background on 2008-9 "War in the next column, S.Res 10." After the "war," the UN established a fact-finding mission to investigate possible violations of human rights laws by Israel. Richard Goldstone, head of the team, a Jew and Zionist, insisted on also investigating Hamas. The team's findings, a 574-paage report published in Sept 2009, indicated possible war crimes and crimes against humanity on both sides, but allegations against Israel were much more serious, including the use of disproportionate force and the targeting of civilians. In 2011, Richard Goldstone unexpectedly rescinded parts of the report; however the rest of the team stood by the report.



"AIPAC, in concert with every mainstream pro-Israel organization in the United States, supports this important resolution," said Josh Block, a spokesman for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. "In echoing the administration's condemnation and calling for concrete action, Congress will be sending the strong message that the United States will not stand for turning the victim into the perpetrator." SOURCE



Read the resolution here.

SCORING KEY FOR SENATE RESOLUTIONS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

3 pro-Israel points for sponsoring
2 pro-Israel points for cosponsoring
1 pro-Israel points for voting aye where there was a roll call vote
1 pro-Palestine points for Nay, Present, or Not Voting

*"S. Res" or "Sense of" resolutions are non-binding resolutions typically used for: going on the record regarding a particular policy or concept; an attempt by some members to persuade other members to support their cause; an attempt to get the president to take/not take some specific action; to express an opinion to the gov't of a foreign nation; or as a formal Thank You note.



The stated reason for Operation Cast Lead was to "stop the rockets." Rockets launched from Gaza had killed 14 Israelis from 2001-mid 2008, an average of less than 2/year. During the same period, 136 Gazans were killed. (During the US-supported incursion, 1,417 Palestinians and 9 Israelis were killed.)



“Expresses commitment to the welfare and survival of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state with secure borders and recognizes Israel's right to act in self-defense. Reiterates that Hamas must end the rocket and mortar attacks against Israel, recognize Israel's right to exist, renounce violence, and agree to accept previous agreements between Israel and the Palestinians. Encourages the President to work to support a sustainable cease-fire in Gaza that prevents Hamas from retaining or rebuilding the capability to launch rockets and mortars against Israel and allows for the long term improvement of daily living conditions for Gaza's people…" SOURCE

SCORING KEY FOR OPEN LETTERS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

2 points for signing a letter

All 100 US senators Signed a letter to United Nations Secy-General António Guterres demanding an end to the “unacceptable" anti-Israel bias in the international body. “…we urge you to ensure that Israel is treated neither better nor worse than any other UN member in good standing," the letter said, describing the “continued targeting of Israel" as “unacceptable." SOURCE



And “most troubling" of all, the senators maintained, is the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) which is “charged with shining a light on gross human rights violations." The letter states that “the UNHRC — whose membership currently includes some of the world’s worst human rights violators — instead devotes time to unwarranted attacks against Israel."


Further Reading 1
Further Reading 2

Read the letter here.
SCORING KEY FOR OPEN LETTERS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

2 points for signing a letter

"AIPAC, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, flexed its muscle against President Obama and on the side of Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu by posting a letter Signed by 88 senators warning President Obama not to back any international measures that would pressure Israel to withdraw from occupied territories.

"AIPAC issued a press release announcing the letter and highlighting this passage: “Even well-intentioned initiatives at the United Nations risk locking the parties into positions that will make it more difficult to return to the negotiating table and make the compromises necessary for peace… we must continue to insist that neither we nor any other outsider substitute for the parties to the conflict.

"The letter is entirely consistent with the Democratic Party platform pushed through by Hillary Clinton in July, which removed references to occupation and settlements; Cornel West said then that the party was “beholden to AIPAC." SOURCE

Read the letter here.

SCORING KEY FOR OPEN LETTERS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

2 points for signing a letter

36 US senators called on Congress to add $320 million for Israeli missile defense to the Senate version of a 2017 defense appropriations bill. Their letter to the Armed Services Committee chairmen included: “Amid growing rocket and missile threats…it is prudent for the US and Israel to...accelerate bilateral cooperation on missile defense technologies." Pres Obama threatened to veto legislation with that level of funding. He “opposes the addition of $455 million" for Israeli missile defense procurement and cooperative development programs, though the bill cuts $324 million from non-Israel related defense systems. SOURCE



Read about the letter and its signatories here.

SCORING KEY FOR OPEN LETTERS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

2 points for signing a letter

SOURCE



Legislation to give Israel $38 billion over the next ten years has been working its way through Congress. This is the largest military aid package in U.S. history. Yet, while Israeli media are covering the legislation, virtually no U.S. news reports have informed American taxpayers about this proposed disbursement of their tax money. The proposed military aid amounts to $23,000 per every Jewish Israeli family of four. (Aid to Israel has been on average about 7,000 times greater per capita than U.S. aid to others around the world.) SOURCE


Further Reading 1
Further Reading 2

Read the letter here.

SCORING KEY FOR OPEN LETTERS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

2 points for signing letter

11/9/15 U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) today sent a bipartisan letter Signed by 36 senators to Federica Mogherini, VP of the European Commission. The letter expresses concern over reports that the European Union (EU) intends to move forward with new guidelines this week to label certain products made by Israeli companies imported into the EU.
SOURCE



According to the guidelines, products made in Israel's illegal settlements cannot be labeled "Made in Israel." Instead, the labeling must clearly indicate that they were produced in an Israeli settlement. Although the EU explicitly stated that it "does not support any form of boycott or sanctions against Israel," dozens of members of Congress have castigated the EU's decision. SOURCE


Further Reading

Read the letter here.

SCORING KEY FOR AMBASSADOR CONFIRMATION VOTES:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

3 pro-Israel points for voting in favor of confirmation

See all Senate votes for this confirmation here.

David Friedman personally identifies with Israel’s illegal colonization of Palestinian land and raises millions of dollars each year to fund an Israeli settlement. He opposes Palestinian exercising sovereignty over any portion of their historic homeland and speaks approvingly of Israel’s annexation of the West Bank. This contradicts decades of US policy. Our ambassador to Israel must uphold US opposition to Israeli settlements, not represent Israel’s settler movement. SOURCE



U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman on Monday accused the media of major bias against Israel in its coverage of the recent violence on the Gaza border, telling reporters to “keep your mouths shut until you figure it out"…Friedman claimed that most journalists covering the clashes in recent weeks had never bothered investigating whether Israel had other viable alternatives for defending its border besides using live fire. SOURCE


Further Reading

To see voting record for confirmation, go here.

SCORING KEY FOR AMBASSADOR CONFIRMATION VOTES:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

3 points for voting for or against the confirmation of an Israel partisan as ambassador

See all Senate votes for this confirmation here.

From Nikki Haley’s confirmation hearing opening statement: “Nowhere has the UN’s failure been more consistent and more outrageous than in its bias against our close ally Israel. Last month’s passage of UN Resolution 2334 was a terrible mistake, making a peace agreement between the Israelis and the Palestinians harder to achieve…I was the first governor in America to sign legislation combatting the anti-Israel Boycott, Divest, and Sanction, or “BDS" movement. .. In fact, I pledge to you this: I will never abstain when the United Nations takes any action that comes in direct conflict with the interests and values of the United States." SOURCE



Nikki Haley’s words upon leaving the UN Human Rights Council 6/19/18: "For too long, the Human Rights Council has been a protector of human rights abusers, and a cesspool of political bias." Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu praised the move however, thanking Trump and Haley for their "courageous decision against the hypocrisy and the lies of the so-called UN Human Rights Council. For years, the UNHRC has proven to be a biased, hostile, anti-Israel organization that has betrayed its mission of protecting human rights," he said. SOURCE


Further Reading

To see voting record for confirmation, go here.

SCORING KEY FOR ATTENDANCE AT NETANYAHU SPEECH:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1 pro-Israel point for attending

BACKGROUND: 1/8/15 House Speaker John Boehner (R) and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R) arranged to have Netanyahu speak before Congress without notifying the White House, to "make sure," in Boehner's words, "that there was no interference" from the administration... Attendance at Netanyahu's speech became a litmus test of a Congress person's dedication to Israel. SOURCE



President Obama believed that reaching a deal with Iran...waas the best way to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon, and to prevent a war with Iran. Netanyahu believed that the Iranians are not negotiating in good faith, and that any deal likely to be struck would be a bad one...He believes a nuclear Iran would pose a threat to Israel's very survival.


Further Reading

SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

BACKGROUND: 7/17/18 From OCHA: Of particular concern is the impact that shortfalls in fuel will have on the provision of critical health, water and sanitation services in Gaza. With electricity cuts up to 20 hours per day, over 220 health and WASH facilities in the Gaza Strip depend on donor-funded emergency fuel to power back-up generators to deliver essential services. 15,000 Palestinians have been injured since 30 March in the context of demonstrations; the health system is on the verge of collapse; and the Israeli blockade has created an 11-year humanitarian crisis that has raised concerns over collective punishment. Simultaneously, historically low levels of funding, along with the unprecedented financial crisis facing UNRWA, leave humanitarian partners ill positioned to meet increasing needs or responding to any further deterioration. SOURCE



"SILENCE" for this issue reflects an unwillingness to acknowledge the collective suffering of 2 million people for 11 years, an illegal blockade, and the systematic starvation and forced economic collapse of a people group. It can only be described as a conscious pro-Israel position.

SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

As of 11 September 2018, at least 172 Gazans have been killed and approximately 19,000 injured in the peaceful protest that began on March 30 and has continued every Friday since. The demonstrators have been unarmed except for slingshots, some Molotov cocktails, and some kites and tires which have been set on fire. A few people have approached the border fence, but at no time were IDF soldiers' lives threatened. Yet Israel employed snipers with live bullets, including exploding bullets. In many cases, medics were shot, as well as bystanders, children, the disabled, and people with their hands up or running away from the conflict. Yet other than 14 May (the day the US embassy in Jerusalem opened) there has been almost no news coverage. SOURCE



"SILENCE" for this issue reflects an unwillingness to acknowledge the right of 2 million people under blockade to peacefully protest their oppression, and the heavy-handed approach by Israel in using snipers to control them. It can only be described as a conscious pro-Israel position.

SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

BACKGROUND: On 12/6/17, President Trump said, “I have determined that it is time to officially recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel…I’ve judged this course of action to be in the best interests of the United States of America and the pursuit of peace between Israel and the Palestinians.  This is a long-overdue step to advance the peace process and to work towards a lasting agreement." Both Israelis and Palestinians claim [Jerusalem] as their political capital and as a sacred religious site…The city’s status has been disputed, at least officially, since the 1948 Arab-Israeli War…During the war, Israel seized the city’s western half. It seized the eastern half during the next Arab-Israeli war, in 1967. Most foresee a peace deal that gives western Jerusalem to Israel and eastern Jerusalem to a future Palestinian state. Much of the world already considered the United States a biased and unhelpful actor, promoting Israeli interests in a way that perpetuated the conflict. SOURCE



BACKGROUND: Trump's move overturns nearly seven decades of foreign policy and analysts warn it could threaten efforts to broker a peace deal between the Israelis and the Palestinians. Arab leaders warn it could elicit new outbreaks of violence, prompting the White House to prepare by coordinating plans to protect Americans abroad. Israeli security officials say they are prepared for all scenarios. In addition to angering key allies in the in the Arab world, the move threatens to infuriate allies in the West. SOURCE

SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

BACKGROUND: In late August 2017, Israeli Minister of Defense Avigdor Lieberman announced that the Israeli government would evacuate the entire community within several months. Residents of the village were set to be transferred to a site near the former Jerusalem municipal garbage dump near the village of Abu Dis. The Israeli Supreme Court ruled to allow the Israeli army to demolish the entire village of Khan al-Ahmar - a devastating blow to the families who have spent nearly a decade campaigning and fighting a legal battle to remain on their land and maintain their way of life. “Going ahead with the demolition is not only cruel, it would also amount to forcible transfer, which is a war crime," said Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa, Magdalena Mughrabi. SOURCE

SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

David Friedman personally identifies with Israel’s illegal colonization of Palestinian land and raises millions of dollars each year to fund an Israeli settlement. He opposes Palestinian exercising sovereignty over any portion of their historic homeland and speaks approvingly of Israel’s annexation of the West Bank. This contradicts decades of US policy. Our ambassador to Israel must uphold US opposition to Israeli settlements, not represent Israel’s settler movement. SOURCE



U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman on Monday accused the media of major bias against Israel in its coverage of the recent violence on the Gaza border, telling reporters to “keep your mouths shut until you figure it out"…Friedman claimed that most journalists covering the clashes in recent weeks had never bothered investigating whether Israel had other viable alternatives for defending its border besides using live fire. SOURCE


Further Reading

SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

BACKGROUND: The so-called “Israel Anti-Boycott" bills, promoted by AIPAC, have made some progress. Both S. 720, introduced by Sen. Benjamin Cardin (D-MD) in March 2017, and H.R. 1697, introduced by Rep. Peter Roskam (R-IL) the same month, claim that the BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) movements penalize firms doing business in Israel, but in fact they are about doing business in Israel’s colonies, not Israel. Both the ACLU and Amnesty International have expressed their opposition to the bills because of their attacks on free speech. SOURCE



These bills effectively erase the Green Line in U.S. law. They: declare efforts to promote differentiation between Israel and settlements “reminiscent" of the Arab League Boycott of Israel (which U.S. law bars US companies from participating in); include a Statement of Policy that when it comes to UN policies explicitly targeting settlements and the occupied territories, Congress, “views such policies as actions to boycott, divest from, or sanction Israel" SOURCE


Further Reading
SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

Background (Summary of resolution): "Objects to U.N. Security Council Resolution 2334. Such resolution characterizes Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem as illegal and demands cessation of settlement activities...Urges: (1) the U.S. presidential Administrations to uphold the practice of vetoing all Security Council resolutions that recognize unilateral Palestinian actions...and (2) the incoming presidential Administration to... facilitate the resumption of negotiations without preconditions..." SOURCE
SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

Background: In 2014, Israel attacked Gaza with the declared purpose of stopping "unprovoked" rocket attacks (this was the 3rd such attack since 2008), although Israel had provoked Gaza by imposing a brutal blockade since 2007, and Israel had already killed approx. 1,600 Palestinians in the previous "wars" to avenge 17 peacetime Israeli rocket deaths in 11 years. The US Senate supported this incursion even though the previous 2 had been bloodbaths. In this "war," 2,200 Palestinians and 73 Israelis were killed.
SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

Background: In 2012, Israel attacked Gaza with the declared purpose of stopping "unprovoked" rocket attacks (this was the 2nd such attack - the 1st being in 2008-9), although Israel had provoked Gaza by imposing a brutal blockade since 2007, and Israel had already killed over 1,400 Palestinians in the previous "war" to avenge 17 peacetime Israeli rocket deaths in 11 years. The US Senate supported this incursion even though the previous one had been a blood bath. In this "war," 174 Palestinians and 6 Israelis were killed.
SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

Since 1967, Israel has been building illegal settlements on Palestinian land. Today there are at least 600,000 Israelis living on land that was taken from Palestinians. Israel has been unwilling to negotiate a peace agreement and Palestinians want the 1967 borders. So in 2012, Palestine requested a vote, and the UN decided 138-9 (with 41 abstaining) to make Palestine a “non-member observer state. Israel, the US, and a few of Israel’s allies insist that this move is harmful to the peace process; Palestinians need instead to “return to the negotiating table," which they have insisted they will not do until settlement building stops.
SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

The stated objective for Operation Cast Lead was to "stop the rockets." Rockets launched from Gaza had killed 14 Israelis from 2001-mid 2008, an average of less than 2/year. During the same period, 136 Gazans were killed. (During the US-supported incursion, 1,417 Palestinians and 9 Israelis were killed.)
SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

It is unlawful under the Fourth Geneva Convention for an occupying power to transfer parts of its own population into the territory it occupies. This means that international humanitarian law prohibits the establishment of settlements, as these are a form of population transfer into occupied territory. Any measure deSigned to expand or consolidate settlements is also illegal. Confiscation of land to build or expand settlements is similarly prohibited. 600,000 Israelis live in settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. SOURCE
SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content
0 points for comments that were "on the fence"

Senators often make speeches congratulating Israel on the anniversary of its founding or of "the reunification of Jerusalem." The Senate as a body also passes resolutions recognizing these occasions and using them as an opportunity to restate the US's "unbreakable bond" with Israel.
SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content 0 points for comments that were "on the fence"
SCORING KEY FOR COMMENTS:
(Each flag symbol represents 1 point)

1-3 pro-Israel or pro-Palestine points, depending on the strength of content 0 points for comments that were "on the fence"
Provided here are links to online articles where you can learn more about this candidate. Because there are so many candidates and the internet is such a big place, we are not providing further reading for everyone. If you read an article that you think should be included here, please email it to us at [email protected]
Sinema, Krysten DChallengerAZsee story at the end of this row in "Further Reading"$266,730.00 NORPAC, Citizens Organized PAC, National Action Committee, Desert Caucus, Friends of Israel, SunPAC, Heartland PAC, Grand Canyon State Caucus, Democrats for Israel CmteIIIIIIIIIIIIIIStatement about Krysten Sinema:Ron Klein, Executive Director of the Jewish Democratic Council, says of Sinema, “her record has been pretty bulletproof on Israel. Her position has been very clear: She is supportive of the agenda of pro-Israel Democrats."The Kyrsten Sinema/Martha McSally race is one of the most hotly contested in the country. RealClearPolitics has it as a tie. Green Party candidate Angela Green has just pulled out of the race and is asking her supporters to vote for Democrat Kyrsten Sinema. NBC News/Marist shows Green polling at 6%. If those 6% go to Sinema, that might make this race winnable. (Krysten Sinema is PEP - "Progressive Except Palestine") SOURCE
McSally, MarthaRChallengerAZ$182,258.00 American PrinciplesIIII
FEINSTEIN, DIANNEDIncumbentCA1992/11/10$608,064.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIPNayPPPPPPYayIICosponsorIIIYayI(see comment)[COMMENT-UN-SETTLEMENT]YayIYayICosponsorIICosponsorIIYayIYayISignedIISignedIISignedIINo
(see comment)
PPYesIIYesI5/15/18 Letter from Bernie Sanders, Dianne Feinstein, and 11 other senators encouraging Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to "do more to alleviate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip." The senators suggested that the United States restore its funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), encourage the easing of restrictions on the movement of people, goods and equipment in and out of the territory, and support proposals to build Gaza's economy through bold initiatives such as the proposed Gaza Seaport. SOURCEPP"Yesterday, the world witnessed the worst outbreak of violence in Gaza since the last conflict in 2014. Fifty-eight people were killed, and more than 2,700 were injured, raising the death toll to more than 100 since these protests began. While protests must remain peaceful, Israeli forces must exercise greater restraint in the use of live ammunition. I'm deeply disappointed in Ambassador Haley's decision to block a U.N. inquiry into yesterday's events. Without question there should be an independent investigation when the lives of so many are lost. Instead of remaining silent, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo should immediately head to the region to de-escalate this situation. Refusing to act will only reinforce the perception that this administration has chosen a side in this decades-long conflict and can no longer be an honest broker to bring peace to the region." SOURCEPP12/6/17 “President Trump's decision today to unilaterally recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel without any progress toward peace is a major setback to a two-state solution. His announcement rejects decades of bipartisan policy and undermines our standing with the Palestinians and our partners in the region." SOURCEPP11/29/17 Letter from Feinstein and 9 other Senators to PM Netanyahu: "We write today to urge your government not to demolish the Palestinian village of Susiya and the Bedouin community of Khan al-Ahmar. The displacement of entire communities would be an irreversible step away from a 2-state solution, and we urge your government to abandon its efforts to destroy these villages." SOURCEPPThe U.S. ambassador to Israel is one of the most sensitive diplomatic postings in the world…It requires carefully chosen words and actions, each of which are weighed and analyzed for even the subtlest of policy implications. In David Friedman, President Trump has nominated someone who lacks the necessary temperament to serve in such a crucial position. His divisive rhetoric and dangerous positions are contrary to long-held policy and would undermine our national security by further inflaming tensions in the region…He has directly supported settlement activity…As a benefactor of the settlement enterprise, it's impossible to imagine Friedman will push to stop settlement expansion…Friedman expressly rejects the two-state solution…I feel his confirmation would only fan the flames of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict…We need an ambassador who will bridge the divide between Israelis and Palestinians, not make it worse. SOURCEPPSenator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today released the following statement in response to the White House's refusal to veto the UN Security Council resolution condemning Israeli settlements: "President Obama's refusal to veto today's UN Security Council resolution condemning Israeli settlements sends a strong message that the United States still supports a two-state solution. Ending settlement activity in the West Bank and East Jerusalem is an absolute necessity if we're ever to achieve a lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians. I've watched with growing concern the increase in Israeli settlements over the years, where approximately 400,000 individuals now live. I believe the expansion of settlements has but one goal: to undermine the viability of a two-state solution. I've met with displaced Palestinian families who have been kicked off land they've lived on for many generations. The ill will that results from these settlements is a significant roadblock to peace, and I again call on Israel to end their expansion so that a two- state solution remains a possibility." SOURCEPP11/16/16 "I'm deeply concerned by legislation the Netanyahu government is considering that could retroactively legalize all settlements built on private Palestinian land in the West Bank…There are nearly 400,000 settlers already living in 131 officially-recognized Israeli settlements and 97 illegal outposts in the West Bank. Enacting this legislation would fuel further expansion by encouraging the outright confiscation of private Palestinian land. I strongly believe the only way to preserve Israel as a Jewish, democratic state is the establishment of an independent Palestinian state by its side. I'm afraid any hope for two independent states would be lost if this legislation passes. My concerns are compounded by recent calls from some in the Netanyahu government to abandon the two-state solution completely. To preserve the possibility of peace, the Netanyahu government must reject this legislation that forever legalizes West Bank settlements and take steps to demonstrate its commitment to a two-state solution." SOURCEPP
de Leon, Kevin (also Dem)DChallengerCANews on Kevin de Leon:In 2013, de Leon, then part of the California State Legislature, signed onto a letter signed onto a letter to the UC Regents congratulating them for fighting off an attempt by some UC student governments to urge University of California to divest from U.S. companies doing business with Israel.

de Leon and the other signatories shared the Jewish Public Affairs Committee of California (JPAC’s­) concern Boycott, Divest, and Sanctions (BDS) movement on UC campuses is a "divisive and harmful tactic to antagonize and alienate Jewish students on campus, and serves to create further divisiveness rather than a solution that benefits both sides."
MURPHY, CHRISDIncumbentCT2013/1/03$154,561.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIPCosponsorIIIIIPPPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYayI(see comment)YayICosponsor
(see comment)
IIN/A
(see comment)
Yay
(see comment)
IN/AN/ASignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceII12/6/17 "President Trump's decision was made without fully considering the political and security implications, and will further set back any hope of a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians. If we mess this up, it could lead to violence in Israel and across the Middle East, put American diplomats in harm's way and jeopardize the fragile regional partnerships we have in our fight against ISIS." SOURCEP8/1/14 I have consistently supported Israel's right to defend itself. However, I worry nonetheless that the widespread suffering in Gaza will radicalize a new generation of Palestinian and Arab youth against Israel and its backers, including the United States. I am deeply saddened by the loss of life in this conflict, and support an immediate ceasefire to negotiate a political solution to Israel's legitimate concerns about Hamas's weapons and tunnels into Israel, as well as the humanitarian concerns of the Palestinian people."SOURCE11/20/12 “I strongly condemn the ongoing rocket attacks against Israel, which began without provocation and have resulted in the death of innocent civilians. No country in the world would stand by while missiles were launched towards its towns and cities. I support Israel's inherent right to self-defense and call on those responsible to immediately halt the attacks and avoid a further escalation of violence, which will hurt both Israelis and Palestinians." SOURCEI I9/29/11 Today, in response to President Mahmoud Abbas' request for the PLO to join the UN as a full member state, Foreign Affairs Committee member Chris Murphy released the following statement: “This bid for recognition attempts to take shortcuts to statehood and a final peace deal -- a deal that can only be made by negotiating with Israel…"  SOURCEI IN/A"The settlement construction under Netanyahu did make peace less likely because it ultimately carved out sections of a future Palestinian state in a way that wasn’t constructive. I think, I’m a believer in supporting Israel, but also in not being afraid to call them out, when they’re doing something that isn’t ultimately good for peace." SOURCEP5/9/17 Senator Chris Murphy knows that being a friend of Israel means speaking out when government policies hurt Israel's future and go against democratic values. (full article available) SOURCEP
Corey, MatthewRChallengerCT
Russell, JefferyGreenChallengerCTBDS is foreign policy of the sort that each of us can engage in. We've got to talk with our friends and families and neighbors and co-workers about everything! As a result of BDS, I understand that G4S (a multi-faceted "security" multinational with private prisons) has pulled out of the West Bank. SodaStream, an outfit that actress Scarlett Johansson famously has touted, likewise responded to the BDS groundswell. There are many corporate targets of boycott, divestment and sanctions: Caterpillar, Hewlett-Packard, Motorola, and more, complicit in Israel's oppressive, unethical practices in Gaza and the West Bank and up in Syria's Golan Heights. Stockholders can put an end to the bulldozing of houses and olive orchards. During the Nakba anniversary, as the U.S. opened some embassy offices in Jerusalem, Israel slaughtered human rights protesters at the security fence. The goals of BDS are Right to Return, Recognition of Equality and Ending the Occupation of Arab Territories.Green Party supports the Palestinian people's inalienable right to self-determinationGreen Party seeks the end of the occupation and colonization and dismantling of the wallGreen Party wants fundamental rights and full equality for Palestinian citizens of IsraelGreen Party supports the rights of Palestinian refugees to return home as stipulated in UN resolution 194.
CARPER, TOMDIncumbentDE2001/1/03$165,820.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIPIIIYayIIP(see comment)PPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYayIYayIYayIYayICosponsorIIYayICosponsorIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESI5/15/18 Letter from Bernie Sanders, Dianne Feinstein, Tom Carper, and 10 other senators encouraging Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to "do more to alleviate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip." The senators suggested that the United States restore its funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), encourage the easing of restrictions on the movement of people, goods and equipment in and out of the territory, and support proposals to build Gaza’s economy through bold initiatives such as the proposed Gaza Seaport. SOURCEPPSilenceII11/29/17 Letter from Feinstein, Carper, and 8 other Senators to PM Netanyahu: "We write today to urge your government not to demolish the Palestinian village of Susiya and the Bedouin community of Khan al-Ahmar. The displacement of entire communities would be an irreversible step away from a 2-state solution, and we urge your government to abandon its efforts to destroy these villages." SOURCEPP"Over the past months, many members of Delaware's Jewish community have voiced their concerns to me that Mr. Friedman's track record of divisive statements is not only concerning, but disqualifying as our next ambassador to Israel. This kind of reckless rhetoric, translated into policy, could threaten prospects for a peace agreement and ultimately undermine Israel's security. Unfortunately, Mr. Friedman's hardline views, lack of diplomatic experience and volatile temperament leave me no choice but to oppose his nomination." SOURCEPP10/20/17 With the Israel Anti-Boycott Act receiving considerable attention on Capitol Hill, Senator Tom Carper (D-DE) revealed that the ACLU’s “legitimate concerns" led him to decline to co-sponsor the bill. “I have not co-sponsored the legislation," the Delaware lawmaker told Jewish Insider. “The ACLU raises some serious concerns about free speech and possible violations of free speech, and those concerns were part of the reason why a number of us chose not to co-sponsor the legislation." SOURCEPMay 2008, Israel's 60th anniversary: "To the citizens of Israel, our message is simple and clear: We will continue to stand in solidarity with you. We are proud of what you have become...."Let me close with the words of Israeli President Shimon Peres, spoken only a few days ago: “Over the last 60 years, we have something that previous generations of Jews, those who were trampled in the pogroms and who were burned in the crematoria, did not have...The miracle of the state of Israel…For 60 years, they fought in seven wars that were forced upon us, and that we won. They enabled us to establish an exemplary society, to be trailblazers in the world in… agriculture, medicine and defense, to be a peace-seeking people, a democratic state and a state that seeks justice." SOURCEI I
Arlett, RobRChallengerDE
Theodoropoulos, DemitriGreenChallengerDE
NELSON, BILLDIncumbentFL2001/1/03$890,924.00 NORPAC, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, National Action Committee, Desert Caucus, SunPAC, To Protect Our Heritage PAC, Americans United in Support of Democracy, Democrats for Israel Cmte, Because We CareIIIIIIIIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIICosponsorIIICosponsor
(see comment)
IIICosponsorIIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceII5/8/08 (Israel's 60th anniversary)... Most of us out here support two states living side by side in peace and security...Palestinians need to reform their institutions and cease those continued terrorist activities against all the innocents. Continued engagement by our country is required to help us get to that goal of peace in the Middle East. I look forward to the continued cooperation of Israel and the United States toward that goal. My hearty congratulations to Israel on its 60th anniversary. SOURCEI I
Scott, RickRChallengerFL$57,568.00 Republican Jewish Coalition, American PrinciplesIIIII
HIRONO, MAZIEDIncumbentHI2013/1/03$60,875.00 Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, Friends of IsraelIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIIPPPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYayICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIIN/AN/AN/AN/ASignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceII“We have ongoing concerns as to what’s happening in that part of the world. We’re monitoring the situation." When [interviewers from the Intercept] asked her if she would urge the Israeli military to use restraint, she declined further comment.
SOURCE
N/AN/AN/A
Curtis, RonRChallengerHI
DONNELLY, JOEDIncumbentIN2013/1/03$198,196.00 Citizens Organized PAC, Friends of Israel, To Protect Our Heritage PAC, Americans United in Support of Democracy, City PACIIIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIIPCosponsorIIIPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYayICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIIN/AN/AN/AN/ASignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceIIN/AN/AN/A
Braun, MikeRChallengerIN$34,700.00 Republican Jewish CoalitionIIII
WARREN, ELIZABETHDIncumbentMA2013/1/03$152,325.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIPCosponsorIIINayPPP(see comment)PPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYayICosponsorIIYayIN/AN/A
(see comment)
N/AN/ASignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIINO8/3/18 (Signed by 9 Senators) As the Administration considers its policy towards Gaza, we urge you to release funds for existing programs and projects that could immediately benefit Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip as well as restore U.S. support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). As you know, as a result of Congressional passage of the Taylor Force Act, none of these funds could be used to directly benefit the Palestinian Authority or Hamas, but instead must be used to help the people most in need in Gaza. SOURCEPPP4/12/18 (PRE-MAY 14) “I am deeply concerned about the deaths and injuries in Gaza," Warren said. “As additional protests are planned for the coming days, the Israel Defense Forces should exercise restraint and respect the rights of Palestinians to peacefully protest." SOURCEPP11/29/17 Letter from Feinstein, Warren, and 8 other Senators to PM Netanyahu: "We write today to urge your government not to demolish the Palestinian village of Susiya and the Bedouin community of Khan al-Ahmar. The displacement of entire communities would be an irreversible step away from a 2-state solution, and we urge your government to abandon its efforts to destroy these villages." SOURCEPP"I think the boycott is wrong, but I think outlawing protected free speech activity violates our basic constitution." SOURCEN/A1/1/12 “I am also a strong proponent of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which I believe to be in the interest of Israel and the United States, with a Jewish, democratic state of Israel and a state for the Palestinian people. The U.S. can and should play an active role in promoting a diplomatic resolution to the conflict that is agreed to by the parties, but I do not believe that a lasting peace can be imposed from the outside or that either party should take unilateral steps - such as the Palestinians' application for UN membership - that move the parties further away from negotiations." SOURCEIN/A
Diehl, GeoffRChallengerMA
CARDIN, BENDIncumbentMD2007/1/03$987,325.00 Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, National Action Committee, Desert Caucus, Friends of Israel, To Protect Our Heritage PAC, Americans United in Support of Democracy, Washington PAC, CITY PACIIIIIIIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIICosponsorIIISPONSOR
(see comment)
IIICosponsorIIISPONSORIIIICosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IISPONSOR
(see comment)
IIICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIINo
(see comment)
PPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceII“I expect that in advance of the President’s announcement appropriate planning and precautions were taken to ensure the safety of U.S. personnel and facilities, and also that careful consideration and consultations focused on not exacerbating conflicts in a region already suffering from unprecedented levels of violence. I look forward to learning more about the Administration’s plans for restarting direct negotiations for a just, sustainable two-state solution." SOURCE"Following extensive consideration of Mr. Friedman's record and taking into account his statements during his nomination hearing, I have concluded that his past record would make it very difficult for him to serve as that unifying force. For that reason, I am unable to support his nomination as America's top diplomat in Israel…Taken together, Mr. Friedman's statements and affiliations make it clear that he does not believe the two-state solution is necessary for a just and lasting peace. I am concerned that Mr. Friedman's history on this issue undermines his ability to represent the United States as a credible facilitator of the peace process. There is no realistic, sustainable prospect for a lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians other than two states living side by side with security." SOURCEPP9/29/16 (Cardin, Portman) "Opponents of Israel around the world...have increasingly promoted efforts to boycott, divest, and sanction Israel as a way to delegitimize and isolate Israel, while bypassing the direct negotiation process necessary to resolve political disagreements... The United States must support Israel by using the considerable economic and diplomatic tools at our disposal to stand up to this economic discrimination against our ally... We cannot allow these attempts to bypass direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians to go unchecked." SOURCEI I“The Security Council resolution…does nothing to move forward the shared goal of two states living side-by-side in peace and security. This resolution is one-sided and unfairly calls out Israel without assigning any blame for the Palestinian role in the current impasse. I support policies and actions working toward a two-state solution through direct negotiations between the parties, but this resolution does nothing to reinforce direct talks…Security Council have not had sufficient time to consider the text. I therefore call on the administration to veto this resolution." SOURCEI IIn the letter to President Obama, Senator Cardin urges the president not to pressure Israel into a ceasefire before the threats from Hamas are fully eliminated. “We cannot force a ceasefire upon Israel that leaves them vulnerable to future deadly attacks. … Both Palestinian and Israeli civilians are dying because of the distorted priorities of the leaders of a terrorist organization whose primary goal is to destroy Israel. We must do everything possible to ensure they do not succeed." Senator Cardin’s letter to Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon was a firm rebuttal to the Secretary-General’s recent comments describing Israel’s military operations in Gaza as “atrocious action." In the letter, Senator Cardin writes: “When leaders and organizations of the United Nations blur the clear distinction between a nation-state defending itself and a terrorist organization attempting to murder civilians – and suggest the two are morally equivalent – it results in … dangerous outcomes." SOURCEI I“I strongly support Israel’s right to defend its citizens against threats to its security and existence. The recent military action in Gaza is a direct response to numerous and ongoing rocket attacks from militants in the Hamas-controlled Gaza, which have injured dozens of Israeli citizens. I am deeply saddened by the continued violence and loss of innocent lives." SOURCEI I6/29/11 “The Senate has delivered a clear message to the international community that United Nations recognition of a Palestinian state at this time does not further the peace process. A permanent and peaceful settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can only be achieved through direct Israeli-Palestinian negotiations...any effort to seek unilateral statehood at the United Nations will have serious consequences for future U.S. aid to the Palestinians...But the road to peace is through negotiations, not subverting them and making a case before the United Nations." SOURCEI I1/7/09 “I am deeply saddened by the continued violence and loss of innocent lives on both sides of the Israel-Gaza border. I strongly support Israel's right to defend its citizens against threats to its security and its existence. I wholeheartedly agree with President-elect Obama who defined the problem very clearly: If somebody was sending rockets into my house, where my family slept at night I'm going to do everything in my power to stop that. The recent military action in Gaza is in direct response to numerous rocket and mortar attacks from militants in the Hamas-controlled Gaza, which have killed and injured Israeli citizens and currently paralyzes the southern regions of Israel. Southern Israel cities have been the target of over 4,000 rockets." SOURCEI IOn Israel’s 70th anniversary: “Today I’m mindful of the courage it took President Harry Truman, against the advice of some of his closest advisors, to recognize Israel’s right to exist…It is imperative the United States continue to stand by Israel, help her thrive, and support her on the international stage. In order for Israel to have the future she and her people aspire toward, it is imperative that both the Israelis and the Palestinians agree to a framework to jumpstart negotiations toward a two-state solution. Two states living side-by-side in peace and security remains the only viable option to ensure Israel’s best years are ahead of her – a goal shared by Jews and peace- and freedom-loving people the world over." SOURCEI I2/1/18 Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Rob Portman (R-OH), co-authors of the Israel Anti-Boycott Act (S. 720), issued the following statement in response to the UN Human Rights Council's (UNHRC) report detailing its work establishing a list of companies operating or investing in certain Israeli-controlled territories, which preliminarily targeted 22 U.S. companies: "We strongly oppose the ongoing efforts to compile a blacklist of companies that do business in Israeli-controlled territories. Twenty-two U.S. companies have been preliminarily identified by the UNHRC's methodology. We oppose all efforts by international organizations seeking to undermine prospects for resuming negotiations for a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. In response to specific actions like the 2016 UNHRC resolution that created the blacklist, we introduced the Israel Anti-Boycott Act. This bipartisan legislation protects U.S. companies from unsanctioned international boycotts and preserves the space for direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians." SOURCEI I4/22/10 “Today, it is Israel who continues to acknowledge the necessary framework for any peace agreement --a two state solution. While Israel has shown willingness for direct negotiations, the Palestinians continue to be an unreliable partner in moving forward towards peace." SOURCEI I
Campbell, TonyRChallengerMD
KING, ANGUSIIncumbentME2013/1/03$171,494.00 J-Street, National Action Committee, National PAC

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIIIPCosponsorIIIYayIIPCosponsorIIIPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYayICosponsorIIYayIYay
(see comment)
IN/AN/AN/AN/ASignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceII[Senator King] is hopeful that Secretary Kerry can help facilitate an end to the present conflict. SOURCEPN/AN/AN/A1/20/15 King was part of a delegation returning from a trip to the Middle East: In Israel, the delegation met with President Reuven Rivlin, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah, and Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman, as well as Labor Party Leader Isaac Herzog and Hatnua Party Leader Tzipi Livni. The discussion focused on a broad range of bilateral and regional issues as well as a reaffirmation of support for the U.S.-Israel strategic partnership. SOURCEI
Brakey, EricRChallengerME
STABENOW, DEBBIEDIncumbentMI2001/1/03$880,330.00 Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, National Action Committee, Friends of Israel, Maryland Association for Concerned Citizens, To Protect Our Heritage PAC, Americans United in Support of Democracy, Heartland PAC, City PACIIIIIIIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIIPPCosponsorIIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIIYayIYayISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceII12/29/16 “I strongly disagree with the United States’ abstention [in UN vote on settlements] which allowed a one-sided resolution concerning Israel to be adopted. This resolution is not the way to achieve peace and undermines opportunities for direct negotiations." SOURCEI I...One important attribute that the people of Israel share with the people of the United States is our system of values. Both countries are lands of freedom and democracy. While these two countries were formed at very different times, they both uphold and honor critical freedoms--freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of association, freedom of the press, and government by the consent of the governed. This foundation has led to a country that truly celebrates life and works to improve life across the world. Israel began in a desert, but today, it is a fountain of culture, innovation and industry. This didn't happen overnight, though. David Ben-Gurion and the founders of Israel had a great vision for their country. They built Israel from scratch, turning the arid land into fertile farms and thriving cities. The Israeli people are leaders in celebrating life, as evidenced by their humanitarian works and their pioneering medical advances that will save and improve people's lives, and they are making a real difference throughout the world. SOURCEI I
James, JohnRChallengerMI
Squier, MarciaGreenChallengerMI
KLOBUCHAR, AMYDIncumbentMN2007/1/03$259,847.00 National Action Committee, Friends of Israel, SunPAC, Americans United in Support of DemocracyIIIIIIICosponsorIIICosponsorIIIPPPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYay
(see comment)
ICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIIYay
(see comment)
ISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceIIU.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, meeting with more than 40 critics of the Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip, said Tuesday that she would push for humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza and favored a cease-fire, but she refused to condemn the Israeli offensive. SOURCEI2008: “Today is a great milestone for the people of Israel and for all…Each step along the way has been paved with the two fundamental and complimentary tenets of the Israeli nation: resilience and faith. The existence of Israel across these six decades, the way it has grown and flourished has provided security and opportunity for its citizens. It has strengthened and enhanced Jewish life around the world. And it has been a beacon of democracy that has made the entire world a safer, more hopeful place…But the people of Israel must know that wherever forces of intolerance gather to endanger their safety or security, the United States will stand beside them in defying and defeating those foes…" SOURCEI I
SMITH, TINADIncumbentMN2018/1/03$18,750.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, National Action Committee

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIIPCosponsorIIIYayIIN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/ASilenceIISilenceIIN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A
Newberger, JimRChallengerMN
Overby, PaulaGreenChallengerMN
Housley, KarinRChallengerMN$6,100.00
MCCASKILL, CLAIREDIncumbentMO2007/1/03$546,905.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, Americans United in Support of Democracy

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIIPCosponsorIIINayPPPCosponsor
(see comment)
IIIPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIIYayYayICosponsorIIYayIYaySignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceIIMcCaskill was asked about the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions Movement, commonly referred to as BDS, during a town hall stop in Camdenton, Missouri, last week. "I don't know what anti-BDS is," McCaskill said as she moved on to the next question. (HOWEVER SHE CosponsorED BOTH S 170 AND S 720, ANTI-BDS BILLS) SOURCEI
Hawley, JoshRChallengerMO$53,650.00 Republican Jewish Coalition, American PrinciplesIIIII
Crain, JoGreenChallengerMO
WICKER, ROGERRIncumbentMS2007/12/31$308,581.00 Florida Congressional Committee, Desert Caucus, Friends of Israel, American Principles, Maryland Association for Concerned Citizens, To Protect Our Heritage PAC, Americans United in Support of Democracy, National PAC, Louisiana for American Security, Grand Canyon State Caucus, NorPAC, City PACIIIIIIIIIIIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIICosponsorIIICosponsor
(see comment)
IIICosponsorIIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IIYayIYayISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIIYesIINoPPYESISilenceIISilenceII12/6/17 "President Trump's courageous decision to relocate America's embassy to Jerusalem is long overdue…Jerusalem is the eternal and undivided home of the Jewish people. We should treat Israel like we do every other country and locate our embassy in its capital city…Concerns that moving the embassy will endanger negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians distract from the real and enduring threats to peace -- the continued refusal to acknowledge Israel's right to exist and the lingering hostility toward the Jewish state from Palestinian leadership and other groups around the world. A peace process that cannot withstand moving the location of America's embassy was never serious in the first place." SOURCEI I8/3/17 Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) wholeheartedly backed the legislation, “I think it’s pro-free speech. I think it’s self-explanatory." SOURCEI I“Throughout this year, and especially during the past week prior to the recent ceasefire, we have witnessed the citizens of Israel suffer from a continual barrage of missiles, rockets, and mortar shells from the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. The Iron Dome system’s success has protected civilians living in Israel’s population centers targeted by these rockets.  The Senate has a record of standing with Israel.  This amendment [recognizing the success of the Iron Dome] continues that long-held commitment of support." SOURCEI I9/26/11 “If necessary, the United States should use our U.N. Security Council veto to prevent the Palestinian Authority's unilateral bid for statehood. Any vote by the General Assembly in favor of statehood would be non-binding, but the Palestinians' success there could have broad implications. President Abbas wrote in the New York Times earlier this year that it could ‘pave the way for the internationalization of the conflict as a legal matter’-- ultimately allowing for Palestinians to cause trouble for Israel in international courts and agencies. We cannot let Israel stand alone. As the Palestinian Authority moves away from negotiations, the US must maintain its resolve and work to bring the two sides back together. We cannot let Israel stand alone." SOURCEI I
HYDE-SMITH, CINDYRIncumbentMS2018/4/09$17,050.00 Citizens Organized PAC, To Protect Our Heritage PACIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIIN/ACosponsorIIICosponsorIIIN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/ASilenceIISilenceIIMississippi's newest U.S. Senator calls Jerusalem "the cultural and political center of Judaism." Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith posted the comment online, where she says she applauds President Donald Trump's decision to move the American embassy in Israel there from Tel Aviv. SOURCEI IN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A6/21/18 The FY2019 State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee on Thursday provides $3.3 billion for military aid for Israel. Overall, the Senate measure is written to support U.S. allies, counter extremism, and promote democracy around the globe. "Our commitment to Israel as our most important ally in the Middle East is backed up with funding in this bill," Hyde-Smith said. "I appreciate that this bill also continues restrictions on the United Nations Human Rights Council, which is decidedly skewed against the best interests of Israel and American interests." SOURCEI I6/20/18 (S.2497) would authorize U.S. foreign military assistance to Israel over 10 years pursuant to a 2016 Memorandum of Understanding Signed between the two countries. "Strengthening our critical strategic alliance with Israel is in U.S. security interests and the absolute right thing to do for our closest friend in a very dangerous part of the world. I'm pleased to support legislation to guarantee Israel has the resources to protect itself from existing and evolving threats from Iran, Hezbollah, and other bad actors," Hyde-Smith said. In addition to authorizing security assistance for Israel, S.2497 would extend loan guarantee authority and War Reserve Stockpile Authority for five years. The bill reaffirms U.S. policy to ensure Israel's Qualitative Military Edge (QME) or ability to defeat all conventional military threats. SOURCEI I
Baria, DavidDChallengerMS
Espy, MikeDChallengerMS$13,600.00 unknown
TESTER, JONDIncumbentMT2007/1/03$328,629.00 Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, National Action Committee, Friends of Israel, Maryland Association for Concerned CitizensIIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIIPPCosponsorIIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYayICosponsorIIYayCosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIIYayIYaySignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceIIWhen asked during [a pro-Israel] event what could be done to keep the US-Israel relationship bipartisan in this highly polarized political climate, the Senator answered that pro-Israel advocates “need to keep visiting and educating members of Congress on Capitol Hill." SOURCEI
Rosendale, MattRChallengerMT$13,600.00 American PrinciplesIIII
HEITKAMP, HEIDIDIncumbentND2013/1/03$228,831.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, Desert Caucus, Friends of Israel, Maryland Association for Concerned Citizens, Americans United in Support of Democracy, Because We Care

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIIIIIPCosponsorIIIYayIIPCosponsorIIIPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYayICosponsorIIYayICosponsor
(see comment)
IIN/AN/AN/AN/ASignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceIIN/AN/AN/A
Cramer, KevinRChallengerND$45,550.00 Republican Jewish CoalitionIIII
FISCHER, DEBRIncumbentNE2013/1/03$155,900.00 NORPAC, Citizens Organized PAC, National Action Committee, Friends of Israel, SunPAC, American Principles, Maryland Association for Concerned Citizens, To Protect Our Heritage PAC, Americans United in Support of Democracy, Heartland PAC, Grand Canyon State CaucusIIIIIIIIIIIIIINayPPPCosponsor
(see comment)
IIICosponsorIIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsorIICosponsorIIYayICosponsorIIN/AN/AN/AN/ASignedIISignedIISignedIIYesIIYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceII12/7/17 “I support POTUS announcement recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. It demonstrates a strong commitment to our ally & is consistent with a bill passed by Congress & enacted into law under President Clinton in 1995." SOURCEI I7/20/17 Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE) told colleagues that over the preceding five weeks visiting constituents, “[n]ot a single Nebraskan told me to go back to Washington and vote to limit free speech." She decried the effort as gutting “the First Amendment and the principles of free speech that have endured since the Bill of Rights was ratified in 1791," and said it “would actually diminish democratic participation and decrease freedom." SOURCEP7/25/14 “Violence is also raging in the Middle East, including in Israel and Gaza. The deaths of both Israeli and Palestinian civilians are truly tragic, and I completely support Israel's right to defend itself from the rocket attacks launched by Hamas. These attacks on Israel are a reminder to the world that Hamas is undeniably a terrorist group -- one that is committed to Israel's destruction and willing to use indiscriminate violence to achieve its goals. Hamas is firing rockets from civilian areas and hiding rockets in mosques, hospitals and schools. They even tried to hide rockets in a school run by the U.N. This latest round of violence should galvanize the entire international community to press Hamas to renounce violence and commit to peace." SOURCEI IN/AN/AN/A
Raybould, JaneDChallengerNE$2,000.00 Joint Action Committee for Political AffairsIIII
MENENDEZ, BOBDIncumbentNJ2006/1/18$1,306,599.00 Citizens Organized PAC, National Action Committee, Desert Caucus, Friends of Israel, SunPAC, Maryland Association for Concerned Citizens, To Protect Our Heritage PAC, Heartland PAC, Louisiana for American Security, Grand Canyon State Caucus, Because We Care, NorPAC, Mid Manhattan PACIIIIIIIIIIIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIICosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsor
(see comment)
IIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIIYesIIYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceII12/6/17 "Today, I welcome the announcement from the President affirming established U.S. law that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and that the Embassy of the United States should reside in the capital. I have always supported moving the United States Embassy to Jerusalem." SOURCEI I"Today, I cast my vote to confirm David Friedman as U.S. Ambassador to Israel. In recent weeks, I have heard from many constituents with a passion for the U.S.-Israel relationship and with different views on Mr. Friedman's nomination…We discussed his commitment not just to America's national security and the U.S.-Israel relationship, but also his commitment to supporting Israelis and Palestinians in their efforts to negotiate a two-state solution, and the right of the Palestinian people to self-governance and prosperity. Mr. Friedman also spoke of his past work promoting economic development and opportunity in the West Bank…"  SOURCEI IAt 2017 AIPAC: "[BDS is] a campaign to boycott Israeli goods and Israeli scholars that treats the only democratic, free-market economy in the Middle East as the cause of all the region's challenges. The last time I checked, Israel stands alone in a desert full of despots that have no regard for democratic freedoms, human rights, and the rule of law…BDS activists turn the other way as Bashar al Assad and Vladimir Putin bomb civilians without hesitation…And they claim the mantle of free speech to defend this smear campaign against Israel, they demand that Israeli academics in every field of study be silenced, that students who are Jewish, who are pro-Israel…are silenced. But we must not be silent. We must stand together to ensure that the letters B.D.S. are seen for what they are-- bias directed solely at one people and one country by those who should know better." SOURCEI I12/23/16 "I am deeply disturbed by today's actions at the UN Security Council. The international body once again, instead of focusing on grave humanitarian crises and political instability throughout the world chose to single out Israel and further weaken prospects for peace. This resolution was biased, ignored the role Palestinians play in undermining stability and peace, and serves only to continue to delegitimize Israel on the global stage." SOURCEI I7/10/14 Robert Menendez and 3 others today introduced a resolution expressing support for the State of Israel as it defends itself against unprovoked attacks from the Hamas terrorist organization. The resolution: Reaffirms the United States' support for Israel's right to defend its citizens and ensure the survival of the State of Israel; condemns the unprovoked rocket fire at Israel; calls on Hamas to immediately cease all rocket and other attacks against Israel; and calls on Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to dissolve the unity governing arrangement with Hamas and condemn the attacks on Israel. SOURCEI I2012: "For years now, the terrorists in Hamas-controlled Gaza have refused to recognize Israel's right to exist and have launched thousands of rockets and missiles at Israel and innocent civilians in southern Israel…resulting in the senseless destruction of countless homes and the tragic loss of innocent lives. In the face of this undeterred threat, we must again recognize Israel's absolute and inherent right to defend itself and demand that Hamas immediately renounce the use of violence and recognize Israel's right to exist as a Jewish and democratic state." SOURCEI I2011: "If President Abbas insists on acting irresponsibly this week in New York [by pursuing UN Security Council recognition of a Palestinian state], he will make clear that he does not value America's support and assistance to the Palestinian people and that Israel does not have a serious partner in the peace process," said Menendez. "My Senate colleagues and I, as we make difficult budget decisions in the months ahead, will have no choice but to re-evaluate the priority of U.S. taxpayer contributions to the Palestinian Authority," he added. SOURCEI IJan. 2009: "For months…the terrorist organization Hamas has been relentlessly firing missiles into Israel from Gaza, spreading terror, inflicting damage, and killing innocent civilians. No country would be expected to sit on its hands and simply allow its citizens to endure these kinds of vicious attacks without retaliating against the responsible party. I strongly support Israel's right to self-defense and its decision to go after Hamas in response to the unyielding and increasingly far-reaching missile attacks. We all want peace in Gaza and hope that it will come very soon, but peace cannot be achieved so long as Hamas continues missile attacks." SOURCEI I2008: “60 years after its founding, we now witness a strong nation, a steadfast ally and strategic partner of the United States, a dynamic democracy with a thriving economic, political, cultural, and intellectual life, that survives despite the heavy costs of war, terrorism, and unjustified diplomatic and economic boycotts. We now witness a compassionate nation, which regularly sends humanitarian aid, search-and-rescue teams, mobile hospitals, and other emergency supplies, to help victims of disasters around the world…By honoring and commemorating the 60th anniversary of Israel…we take a stand against hatred and discrimination everywhere." SOURCEI I3/28/17 "Those of you who know me know three things: First, you know that I believe it is in the best interests of the United States to have a strong, unwavering, unyielding, unbreakable bond with the State of Israel. Second, you know that I believe in the right of the Jewish people to live in peace and security in the indisputable homeland of their ancestors….And finally, you know that no matter which way the political winds are blowing, or which way the news cycle is going, when it comes to standing up for Israel, you will never -- ever-- find me spinning like a weathervane, but rather a strong moral compass that bears due east the 5,879 miles from Washington to Jerusalem." SOURCEI I10/31/11 "Today's UNESCO vote to recognize Palestine as a Member State is an unacceptable attempt by the Palestinians to circumnavigate the peace negotiation process. This is a symbolic vote, but one that will harm the attempts at restarting negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians. I strongly urge the State Department to enforce U.S. law and immediately cut off all funding to UNESCO and any other international organization that recognizes a Palestinian state. The Palestinian leadership is aware of U.S. law on this issue and it is very unfortunate that it is forcing the U.S. to take such drastic steps." (U.S. law prohibits funding for UN agencies in which a Palestinian state is given membership. At the time of this statement, the United States currently pays 22 percent or $80 million annually of UNESCO's budget.) SOURCEI I
Hugin, BobRChallengerNJ
Hoffman, MadelynGreenChallengerNJ
HEINRICH, MARTINDIncumbentNM2013/1/03$262,725.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, Maryland Association for Concerned Citizens, National PAC

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIIIPCosponsorIIIYayIIPPPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYayI(see comment)CosponsorIICosponsorIIN/AN/AN/AN/ASignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPNoPPNO5/15/18 Letter from Bernie Sanders, Martin Heinrich, and 11 other senators encouraging Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to "do more to alleviate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip." The senators suggested that the United States restore its funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), encourage the easing of restrictions on the movement of people, goods and equipment in and out of the territory, and support proposals to build Gaza’s economy through bold initiatives such as the proposed Gaza Seaport. SOURCEPPPSilenceII“Moving the United States embassy in Israel to the holy city of Jerusalem upends a 50-year policy of both Democratic and Republican Presidents and will endanger Israel's security and harm American interests. The decision is misguided and unnecessarily provocative. Once again, this President appears oblivious to the consequences of his actions."  SOURCEP11/29/17 Letter from Feinstein, Heinrich, and 8 other Senators to PM Netanyahu: "We write today to urge your government not to demolish the Palestinian village of Susiya and the Bedouin community of Khan al-Ahmar. The displacement of entire communities would be an irreversible step away from a 2-state solution, and we urge your government to abandon its efforts to destroy these villages." SOURCEPP2017 joint statement from Heinrich and Feinstein: “Since the Jewish people are already a minority, a one-state solution cannot be both majority Jewish and democratic. We have not heard a plausible proposal where a one-state solution wouldn’t require a Jewish minority to govern a non-Jewish majority. To avoid this outcome, we urge the Trump administration to prioritize the Israeli-Palestinian conflict…That must include a halt to Israeli settlement construction and an end to Palestinian incitement of terror." SOURCEPPN/AN/AN/A
Rich, MarkRChallengerNM
HELLER, DEANRIncumbentNV2011/5/09$170,145.00 Republican Jewish Coalition, Citizens Organized PAC, Friends of Israel, Americans United in Support of DemocracyIIIIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIICosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsorIIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsorIIN/AN/ASignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIIYesIIYesIIYESISilenceIIEntering tent for Jerusalem Embassy ceremony, I ask, @SenDeanHeller what he thinks of Gaza death toll. “It’s obviously terrible...We’re all praying we don’t have these kinds of incidents" SOURCEP5/14/18 (Sen. Heller was in Jerusalem for the embassy opening) “Today is a day of celebration for the United States and Israel, two nations that are now joined closer together. The United States is finally righting a wrong and fulfilling its decades-old promise by relocating the American embassy to Jerusalem. As the author of legislation that would do just that, I’m humbled to witness this ceremony." SOURCEI I7/24/14 Today, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) spoke on the Senate floor in steadfast support of Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorism caused by Hamas, including the eradication of underground tunnels used by the terrorist organization to kidnap Israeli citizens SOURCEI IN/A2012: “As Israel celebrates this anniversary, it’s important that the United States remains committed to standing by our strongest ally in the Middle East. Israel has been a friend of the United States for many decades and has consistently promoted the ideals of democracy. This partnership has historically provided invaluable international intelligence that has saved the lives of countless innocent civilians. I will continue to support the State of Israel and its citizens as they strive for peace in the region." SOURCEI I1/18/15 A new bill introduced in the Senate demands that President Obama move the US embassy to Jerusalem… Sponsored by Dean Heller of Nevada and Ted Cruz of Texas... the bill, if passed, will eliminate the president’s authority to delay or not implement the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995. In other words, it is an attempt to force the United States to move its embassy to Jerusalem. SOURCEI I1/3/17 “My support for Israel is unwavering," said Heller. “From my very first days as a United States Senator, I have prioritized the strengthening of the important relationship shared between Israel and the United States. That’s why I’m proud to reintroduce the Jerusalem Embassy and Recognition Act." He was one of three to introduce bill. SOURCEI I
Rosen, JackyDChallengerNV$240,791.00 Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, Washington PAC, Democrats for Israel CmteIIIIII
GILLIBRAND, KIRSTENDIncumbentNY2009/1/26$431,578.00 Joint Action Committee for Political AffairsIIIICosponsorIIINayPPPWITHDREW
(see comment)
PPPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IISPONSOR
(see comment)
IIICosponsor
(see comment)
IISPONSORIIIN/ASignedIISignedIISigned (INITIATED)IIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceII8/3/17 Re anti-BDS bill, which Gillibrand had co-sponsored: “I’m going to urge them to rewrite it to make sure it says specifically this does not apply to individuals," she said after a meeting with the ACLU. “It has to be very specific that someone who is in favor of BDS can speak their mind and somebody who is against BDS can speak their mind, but you are always allowed to speak your mind. So I’m going to try and get the bill revised so there’s no ambiguity, that it’s just an extension of this foreign policy, which I think does make sense." Gillibrand withdrew her co-sponsorship. SOURCEPDec. 2016: "One-sided resolutions at the UN are not helpful in trying to resolve the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians...The only way to resolve this conflict is through direct negotiations between the two parties that lead to a two-state solution with a future Palestinian state living in peace and security with Israel." SOURCEI IGillibrand urges $622 million for Israel during Operation Protective Edge: “I stand with the people of Israel in this difficult time and firmly support Israel’s right to self-defense against rocket attacks by terrorists in Gaza. This critical investment will go a long way towards protecting our nation’s strongest ally in the Middle East. We must continue to advance and strengthen the U.S.-Israeli cooperation on missile defense."  SOURCEI I“We strongly reiterate our support for Israel’s right to self-defense as a barrage of missiles from Gaza are attacking the people of Israel and endangering innocent lives. The passage of this Senate resolution clearly expresses the United States’ unwavering commitment to the security of our nation’s close and historic ally in the Middle East. We firmly stand united with Israel against terrorism." SOURCEI I9/23/11 "I am deeply disappointed in Palestinian President Abbas' actions today. The Palestinians' unilateral bid for statehood through the United Nations is a harmful distraction from achieving true peace and stability between Israel and Palestine. The only credible path for a two-state solution is through the negotiating table. The United States has made clear to the Palestinians and to others around the world that we stand with our ally Israel at this time of grave risk and insecurity." SOURCEI IN/A
Farley, CheleRChallengerNY$2,500.00 unknown
BROWN, SHERRODDIncumbentOH2007/1/03$835,382.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, Desert Caucus

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIPCosponsorIIIYayIIP(see comment)PPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYay
(see comment)
ICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IIYayICosponsorIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESI5/15/18 Letter from Bernie Sanders, Sherrod Brown, and 11 other senators encouraging Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to "do more to alleviate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip." The senators suggested that the United States restore its funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), encourage the easing of restrictions on the movement of people, goods and equipment in and out of the territory, and support proposals to build Gaza’s economy through bold initiatives such as the proposed Gaza Seaport. SOURCEPPPSilenceII"Our ambassador to Israel must represent the broad American support for a two-state solution and be a passionate advocate for peace. Mr. Friedman's past comments, temperament, and lack of experience give me serious doubts that he can fulfill America's commitment to Israel's security and values." SOURCEPP“I strongly support Israel and measures to combat BDS efforts directed against Israel. I commend Senators Cardin and Portman on this new version of their anti-BDS legislation, which signals progress in their efforts to ensure strong enforcement and clarify the activities covered by the bill. I’ll continue to work with my colleagues to move this legislation forward."  SOURCEI"Any lasting peace must be negotiated between Israelis and Palestinians, not imposed by the international community. My hope is that a new year will bring a new commitment by both sides to earnestly work towards a peace agreement." SOURCEI7/16/14 "Israel has a right and an obligation to defend its people against indiscriminate rocket attacks launched by a terrorist group. The American people stand alongside our closest ally in the Middle East in opposing these senseless provocations." SOURCEI I“Israel must have the right and the resources to defend itself. Hamas and its terrorist allies must cease these rocket attacks immediately. Terrorist attacks are not the path to peace.  From Iron Dome, to other military aid and assistance, to engaging those who seek peace—the United States stands with Israel." SOURCEI I9/21/11 “In the coming days, the next step in an escalation against Israel will take place should the Palestinians seek recognition as a state from the United Nations. Instead of negotiating directly with Israel, as the Palestinians have often committed to do as far back as the Oslo agreement, they are about to seek to exclude Israel from any role in deciding issues that are critical to achieving a permanent peace. That must not occur. This action could set back the peace process for decades to come...Today, as it has done in the past, Congress must stand firm with Israel. It must oppose any Palestinian action at the U.N. which would circumvent its commitment to negotiate. Our support for Israel must be united." SOURCEI I9/14/12 U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) released the following statement today to commemorate Rosh Hashanah--the Jewish New Year "Especially during the High Holy Days, we pause to reflect upon our nation's friendship with our most important ally in the Middle East--Israel. Just as families in Ohio will hear the call of the shofar and toast to a sweet New Year with apples and honey, so will our friends and allies in Israel. As Israel continues to face growing dangers to its security, our unshakeable bond remains stronger than ever--and I have been proud to work to ensure that Israel can defend itself against these threats." SOURCEI I
Renacci, JimRChallengerOH$34,250.00 Citizens Organized PAC, American PrinciplesIIII
CASEY, JR, BOBDIncumbentPA2007/1/03$600,619.00 Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, National Action Committee, Desert Caucus, Friends of Israel, Maryland Association for Concerned Citizens, To Protect Our Heritage PAC, Americans United in Support of Democracy, Heartland PAC, Washington PAC, City PACIIIIIIIIIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIICosponsorIII(see comment)PCosponsorIIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIIWhen [interviewers from the Intercept] asked if the Israeli military should stop shooting at demonstrators, he claimed ignorance. “I just haven’t seen those reports," he said. SOURCEII“Longstanding U.S. policy has been to stand with Israel against attempts to use the United Nations to internationalize the peace process, and that policy should be maintained. The best path to peace is direct talks between the parties, and resolutions like the one offered at the Security Council this week have the potential to move peace further from our reach." SOURCEI I“It is an appalling but often-used tactic by Hamas to launch rockets indiscriminately at Israeli population centers…Hamas is a terrorist organization that rejects a two-state solution and celebrates the kidnapping and murder of innocent civilians…and has no intentions of working towards peace in the region…Hamas must immediately cease the unprovoked rocket attacks that terrorize the Israeli people…my thoughts today are with the families on both sides who continue to live under constant security threats. Israel has an inherent right to self-defense and we should reaffirm our unwavering support for the security and safety of its people." SOURCEI IStatement from Casey and 4 other senators after meeting with Israeli ambassador Michael Oren: “we express our solidarity with Israel during this deeply challenging period and denounce the reprehensible and indiscriminate rocket attacks launched by Hamas and Islamic Jihad against innocent Israeli citizens. We strongly support Israel's right to defend its people and call on those responsible for the violence to cease their attacks against Israel immediately. Escalation will only lead to further suffering on both sides."  SOURCEI I5/16/11 U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) today joined a bipartisan group of Senate colleagues in introducing a resolution opposing Palestinian efforts to seek unilateral recognition at the United Nations and expressing firm belief that any Palestinian unity government must publicly and formally forswear terrorism, accept Israel's right to exist, and reaffirm previous agreements made with Israel. SOURCEI I1/8/09 U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, cosponsored a resolution that recognizes Israel's right to defend itself against attacks from Gaza and reaffirms the United States' strong support for Israel. The resolution is expected to pass the Senate later today. "Israel, like every other state, has the sovereign right to defend itself against attacks on its citizens. The situation we see today in Gaza is a tragedy, but we cannot afford a return to the status quo where Hamas continues to terrorize the Israeli people. I look forward to working with the incoming Obama Administration to restore American leadership on behalf of a durable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with two states co-existing side by side in peace and security." SOURCEI I“This week, we are celebrating 68 years of Israel’s independence…More than 45 years ago, President John F. Kennedy said, “Israel will endure and flourish. It is the child of hope and the home of the brave… It carries the shield of democracy and it honors the sword of freedom." Incredible sacrifices that have been made for Israel’s national security and economic growth…As we mark 68 years of independence, we should reflect upon the service and sacrifice, as well as the unbreakable bond of friendship that has helped Israel to “endure and flourish." SOURCEI I
Barletta, LouRChallengerPA$12,500.00 American PrinciplesIIII
Gale, NealGreenChallengerPA
WHITEHOUSE, SHELDONDIncumbentRI2007/1/03$409,867.00 J-Street, Florida Congressional Committee, Citizens Organized PAC, Friends of Israel, Maryland Association for Concerned Citizens, Americans United in Support of Democracy

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIIIIIPCosponsorIIIYayIIPPPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIII(see comment)CosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIIYay
(see comment)
ISignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIINO5/15/18 Letter from Bernie Sanders, Sheldon Whitehouse, and 11 other senators encouraging Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to "do more to alleviate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip." The senators suggested that the United States restore its funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), encourage the easing of restrictions on the movement of people, goods and equipment in and out of the territory, and support proposals to build Gaza’s economy through bold initiatives such as the proposed Gaza Seaport. SOURCEPPPSilenceII5/14/18 “President Trump’s decision to relocate the embassy to Jerusalem without a broader plan has inflamed tensions and risks undermining our leadership role in the region," said Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I. “This brings us no closer to a lasting peace agreement between the Israelis and the Palestinians — the outcome all parties should be working toward." SOURCEPP"Hamas has cast aside a cease-fire agreement brokered by the Egyptians and indiscriminately targeted Israeli civilians with a barrage of rockets and mortars…leaving Israel with little choice but to respond with force. Israel must defend its people against these attacks. Now, like all Americans, I hope for strong diplomatic intervention…I regret that the Bush Administration's years of neglect allowed the peace process to deteriorate so gravely, and I'm confident that President-Elect Obama's Administration will bring a new commitment and new leadership to address the wider conflict in the Middle East." SOURCEI I2009: "Today, we celebrate the 61st anniversary of Israel's statehood. The United States has a unique bond with Israel and her people, a staunch and enduring alliance founded on our nations' shared commitment to democracy. I had the opportunity to visit Israel for the first time earlier this year, and in meetings in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the West Bank, I saw some reasons for hope for a durable peace…Israel's continued success is a living monument to the strength and will of the Jewish people there and around the world. I have no doubt that Israel will continue to grow and prosper into the future." SOURCEI I
Flanders, BobRChallengerRI
Blackburn, MarshaRChallengerTN$46,600.00 Desert CaucusIIII
Bredesen, PhilDChallengerTN$49,800.00 Citizens Organized PAC, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, Friends of IsraelIIIIII
CRUZ, TEDRIncumbentTX2013/1/03$703,241.00 Republican Jewish Coalition, Citizens Organized PAC, American Principles, Maryland Association for Concerned Citizens, Louisiana for American SecurityIIIIIIIICosponsorIIINayPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsorIIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IIN/AN/AN/AN/ASignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIIYesIIYesIIYESISilenceII5/16/18 "They weren't [peaceful protests] at all, and what we're seeing from the media is absolute propaganda. It's absolutely shameless," Sen. Cruz said. "What's going on is a propaganda effort, which is to coincide with the opening of the embassy. Hamas is sending people out to die charging the wall with maps. If they breach the wall and enter Israel, they have maps of where there are residential communities and go and commit a terror act. They're using Molotov cocktails. One of the things they're using is they're flying kites with Molotov cocktails attached to the kite, in order to get the kite over the wall and use it to light on fire the Israeli fields and to wage terror. The IDF (Israel Defense Forces) are protecting the nation of Israel from terrorists who are attacking and provoking." SOURCEIII"I have long advocated for the U.S. to relocate our Embassy to Jerusalem, where it should be, and I applaud President Trump for keeping his word and moving the embassy. Jerusalem has been Israel's capital going back to founding of the modern state of Israel and it's been the eternal capital of the Jewish people for over 3,000 years. Moving the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem recognizes this reality and sends a powerful message to those who wrongly seek to delegitimize Israel. Today, America kept her word and stood with the nation of Israel as we move the U.S. Embassy to Israel's rightful capital." SOURCEI I"I strongly support David Friedman to serve as the next U.S. Ambassador to Israel and commend President Trump for nominating Mr. Friedman to this position. Israel is one of America's closest and strongest allies in the world. David Friedman is dedicated to restoring and strengthening our critically important alliance with Israel that provides enormous benefits for our two countries. He recognizes the U.S. must firmly stand with Israel against those that threaten the existence and security of both our countries, and combat efforts to delegitimize Israel, such as biased resolutions at the United Nations and the discriminatory Boycott, Divestment, and Sanction (BDS) movement. His leadership will bring exceptional moral clarity to such an important position during a pivotal time of immense and growing instability in the Middle East. I congratulate Mr. Friedman on being approved by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and urge my Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support him during his vote on the Senate floor." SOURCEI I"On a momentous day in which we joined our close ally Israel in celebrating its 69th Independence Day, I am deeply proud that the state of Texas adopted legislation to combat the anti-Israel Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. Texas has sent a powerful message that it stands with Israel and will not do business with or invest certain public funds in companies that participate in this discriminatory economic campaign that intentionally seeks to delegitimize and destroy the Jewish State. This bill strengthens an already steadfast Texas-Israel relationship -- anchored by shared values and exemplified through a robust economic and military partnership. I commend Governor Greg Abbott for signing this anti-BDS bill into law and Representative Phil King and Senator Brandon Creighton for their steadfast leadership in sponsoring this measure." SOURCEI I1/12/17 U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) today introduced the Safeguard Israel Act, which will cut off funding to the United Nations until the President certifies to Congress that UNSC Resolution 2334 has been repealed. The resolution passed last month undermines and delegitimizes our ally, Israel. In their legislation, Sens. Cruz and Graham outline numerous reasons why UNSC Resolution 2334 should be repealed, including: It attempts to pre-judge the basis for negotiations, predetermine the outcome of negotiations, and dictate terms and conditions...It falsely claims that Israel's sovereignty over the eastern part of Jerusalem and Jewish communities in the West Bank are illegal under international law, and that the Old City of Jerusalem, along with the Temple Mount, the holiest site for the Jewish people, and the Western Wall are "occupied Palestinian territory.'' It encourages the International Criminal Court to open an illegitimate formal investigation against Israel. It will help to strengthen the Palestinian diplomatic, economic, and legal warfare campaign against Israel and encourages boycotts, divestments, and sanctions against Israel. SOURCEI IN/AN/AN/A7/3/15 U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, released the following statement in response to the United Nations Human Rights Council vote in condemnation of Israel: "Our single vote in opposition is just and the abstentions of our friends are welcome, but at this point they are meaningless gestures. It is time to stop ceding moral authority to the UNHRC and tell the truth about this hopelessly biased and anti-Semitic institution. There is no equivalency between Israel's right to self-defense and Hamas' genocidal aggression against the Jewish people. There is no equivalence between Israel's extraordinary efforts to protect civilians and Hamas' use of the Palestinian people as human shields. Being party to any body that believes there is only perpetuates this injustice. The United States should stop legitimizing the UNHRC with our membership and withdraw now." SOURCEII4/28/14 “Every Member of this body has expressed our bipartisan commitment for the United States to stand resolutely with our friend and ally, the nation of Israel…It was therefore with great sadness that I read this morning about the comments of Secretary of State John Kerry, who reportedly suggested… that Israel could become an apartheid state if his proposed two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian peace process fails… Apartheid is inextricably associated with one of the worst examples of state-sponsored discrimination in history--the apartheid system in South Africa that was ultimately brought down by the heroic resistance of Nelson Mandela inside the country, supported by a concerted campaign of diplomatic and economic sanctions by the international community. There is no place for this word in the context of the State of Israel." SOURCEI I
O'Rourke, Beto (voting record shown is from House)DChallengerTX$315,727.00 J-Street

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IPIn the House, cosponsored H Res 729, support for robust new MOU with Israel SOURCE
IIIYayIICruz on O'Rourke: "On Israel, he has the most anti-Israel record of any Democratic Senate nominee in the country. In 2014, when Hamas was raining rockets down on Israel, Beto O’Rourke was one of eight members of the House of Representatives to vote against funding Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system.”

O'Rourke's response: “When asked to add a supplemental quarter of a billion dollar appropriation to the Iron Dome without debate, without discussion, without any real information, I didn’t feel that I could in good conscience vote to spend that money."

That vote did not go over well with members of the influential American Israel Public Affairs Committee. Members of that group, including some from El Paso, began circulating emails saying O’Rourke was anti-Israel. O’Rourke was flooded with e-mails, texts, and calls at the time, according to the El Paso Times, and was blasted by some residents at a town hall meeting as he tried to explain his vote.

2 months later, O'Rourke voted for $351 million in funding to Israel's military, on top of the $700 million already approved.
N/AN/A(see comment)N/AN/AN/AN/ANOAs strong supporters of the United States' commitment to the security of the State of Israel and the safety and dignity of Israelis and Palestinians alike, we write to urge you to continue vital US contributions to the United Nations Relief Works Agency (UNRWA) and bilateral assistance to the Palestinians...Alongside robust and expanding US aid to Israel, Congress has regularly appropriated funds to help bolster Palestinian quality of life and governance, both bilaterally and through contributions to UNRWA, and security in the region. This assistance also helps to improve the lives of millions of children in the Palestinian territories, where more than 50 percent of children live below the poverty line... SOURCEPPII"This policy on the part of the president, this decision he made to move the embassy, was absolutely, unnecessarily provocative..."Ultimately, it's going to be up to those two powers to produce the peace, but we can do a better job and we can certainly stop providing incentives and incitement to violence, which I think that move did," SOURCEIIWe should be aware of the fact that the U.N. is dangerously preoccupied with Israel (to the exclusion of other serious and more pressing issues: e.g. Syria) and clearly biased against her. That is of great concern to me — as are other manifestations of this bias, including the Boycott Divest and Sanction (BDS) movement. There is not enough pressure applied to the Palestinian Authority and those who have leverage with its leadership to refrain from acts of terror, incitement to terror, and the cultural context (including in textbooks) that provides part of the moral underpinning for terror to thrive. SOURCEIIIn my opinion, the U.N. resolution does not do justice to all of the issues that have prevented peace in the region over the last half-century. And the resolution is too one-sided. While it appropriately identifies settlement construction as a major obstacle to peace, it doesn’t do nearly enough to call out fundamental failures in Palestinian leadership that have also contributed to the violence and stalemate. SOURCEI“I could not in good conscience vote for borrowing $225 million more to send to Israel [for Iron Dome], without debate and without discussion, in the midst of a war that has cost more than a thousand civilian lives already, too many of them children," he wrote. He also stressed that with an aid package for Israel up for a vote in two months, he felt no need to rush more spending without adequate debate when Congress was all but empty. SOURCEPN/AN/AN/A“Thanks for reaching out. Beto is a proud advocate of Israel. He believes that Israel is critically important to the United States, because it is the home of the Jewish people, because it is an exemplary democracy that shares our values, and because it is a crucial contributor to our national security objectives in the region.
Beto has voted for and will continue to support foreign aid for Israel. He cosponsored and then voted for a resolution in the last Congress to encourage the Obama Administration to quickly finalize a robust and long-term Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Israel. The resulting agreement will last 10 years and provide Israel $3.8 billion per year..." SOURCE
IIWhile in the House, Beto O'Rourke did not cosponsor HR 4391, No Way to Treat a Child SOURCEII
Romney, MittRChallengerUT$1,027,393.00 unknown
Wilson, JennyDChallengerUT
KAINE, TIMDIncumbentVA2013/1/03$527,449.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, Friends of Israel, Americans United in Support of Democracy

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIIIPCosponsorIIIYayIICosponsorIIIPPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIYayICosponsorIIYayICosponsor
(see comment)
IIN/AN/AN/AN/ASignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIINO4/27/18 "I am deeply saddened by the cycle of violence and protests at the Gaza-Israel border. These events make clear the desperate need to alleviate this ongoing humanitarian crisis and actively pursue a political resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The lack of power, clean water, adequate medical care and other necessities in Gaza not only exacerbates the hardships faced by its population, but benefits extremist groups like Hamas who use this deprivation and despair to incite violence against Israel. With Gaza on the brink of economic collapse, the Trump Administration should urgently restore funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and work with Israel and Egypt to ease the blockade and reduce human suffering." SOURCEPSilenceII12/6/17 "Meaningful progress towards an Israeli-Palestinian peace deal has been stalled for years. While I hope that dynamic will change, I am very concerned that President Trump's announcement will further s‎et back efforts to achieve a two-state solution. I support ‎the longstanding U.S. policy that Jerusalem's permanent status needs to be decided by the parties in final peace negotiations. SOURCEP"I am a staunch supporter of the critically important U.S.-Israel partnership and have long been committed to strengthening the unbreakable bond between our two countries. The U.S. Ambassador to Israel serves as the steward of this vital relationship in a volatile part of the world and must be able to engage effectively with representatives across Israeli society, promote dialogue, and demonstrate respect for different views. While it is clear that David Friedman is committed to the U.S.-Israel relationship, his history of inflammatory rhetoric is poorly matched for this role." SOURCEP7/18/14"The escalating conflict between Hamas and Israel is deeply tragic and inflicts serious damage on the people in Israel and Gaza. Based on a cynical political calculation, Hamas, which is a terrorist organization, appears to be intentionally disrupting any chance for progress on peace discussions between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Hamas's decision to escalate rocket attacks on Israel was deSigned to provoke an Israeli defensive response that would necessarily endanger Gaza residents. I fully support Israel's right to defend itself against these indiscriminate rocket attacks, but they also should do everything necessary to minimize harm to civilians and facilitate humanitarian access." SOURCEIN/AN/AN/A
Stewart, CoreyRChallengerVA
SANDERS, BERNIEIIncumbentVT2007/1/03$85,707.00 J-Street

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IPNayPPPPPPYayIIIYayIIYayI(see comment)YayIYayIYayIYayIYayIYayISignedIINoPPNoPPNO5/15/18 Letter from Bernie Sanders and 12 other senators encouraging Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to "do more to alleviate the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip." The senators suggested that the United States restore its funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), encourage the easing of restrictions on the movement of people, goods and equipment in and out of the territory, and support proposals to build Gaza’s economy through bold initiatives such as the proposed Gaza Seaport. SOURCEPPPThe killing of Palestinian demonstrators by Israeli forces in Gaza is tragic. It is the right of all people to protest for a better future without a violent response. SOURCEPP12/5/17 "I'm extremely concerned by reports that President Trump plans to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of the state of Israel. There's a reason why all past U.S. administrations have avoided making this move, and why leaders from all over the world, including a group of former Israeli ambassadors, have warned Trump against doing it: It would dramatically undermine the prospects for an Israeli-Palestinian peace agreement, and severely, perhaps irreparably, damage the United States' ability to broker that peace. What the U.S. should be doing now is bringing adversaries in the Middle East together to seek common solutions, not exacerbating tensions in this highly volatile region." SOURCEPP11/29/17 Letter from Feinstein, Sanders, and 8 other Senators to PM Netanyahu: "We write today to urge your government not to demolish the Palestinian village of Susiya and the Bedouin community of Khan al-Ahmar. The displacement of entire communities would be an irreversible step away from a 2-state solution, and we urge your government to abandon its efforts to destroy these villages." SOURCEPPIsrael is not, cannot, just simply expand when it wants to expand with new settlements. I think if the expansion was illegal, moving into territory that was not their territory, I think withdrawal from those territories is appropriate. I happen to think that those expansions were illegal. SOURCEPPI think most international observers would say that the attacks against Gaza were indiscriminate and that a lot of innocent people were killed who should not have been killed. Look, we are living, for better or worse, in a world of high technology, whether it's drones out there that could, you know, take your nose off, and Israel has that technology. And I think there is a general belief that, with that technology, they could have been more discriminate in terms of taking out weapons that were threatening them. SOURCEPP“The Israelis must…cease developing settlements on Palestinian land." “Peace will mean an end to what amounts to the occupation of Palestinian territory, establishing mutually agreed upon borders, and pulling back settlements in the West Bank, just as Israel did in Gaza." SOURCEPP3/21/16 To my mind, as friends -- long term friends with Israel -- we are obligated to speak the truth as we see it. That is what real friendship demands, especially in difficult times...But it is important among friends to be honest and truthful about differences that we may have...I am here to tell the American people that, if elected president, I will work tirelessly to advance the cause of peace as a partner and as a friend to Israel. But to be successful, we have also got to be a friend not only to Israel, but to the Palestinian people, where in Gaza unemployment today is 44 percent and we have there a poverty rate which is almost as high. So when we talk about Israel and Palestinian areas, it is important to understand that today there is a whole lot of suffering among Palestinians and that cannot be ignored. You can't have good policy that results in peace if you ignore one side. SOURCEP“If we are ever going to bring peace to that region which has seen so much hatred and so much war, we are going to have to treat the Palestinian people with respect and dignity. We cannot continue to be one-sided. There are two sides to the issue…I read Secretary Clinton's statement speech before AIPAC. I heard virtually no discussion at all about the needs of the Palestinian people. Almost none in that speech. You gave a major speech to AIPAC, which obviously deals with the Middle East crisis, and you barely mentioned the Palestinians…There comes a time when, if we pursue justice and peace, we are going to have to say that Netanyahu is not right all of the time." SOURCEPP
Zupan, LawrenceRChallengerVT
CANTWELL, MARIADIncumbentWA2001/1/03$326,146.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs, Friends of Israel

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIIPCosponsorIIIYayIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIAYEICosponsorIICosponsorIIYayICosponsorIICosponsorIIYayIYayISignedIISignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceII2018, 70th anniversary: “Since 1948, Israel and the United States have fostered a truly unique union, a bond rooted in our shared values of democratic representation, freedom of expression and religion, and the rule of law. As your representative in the US Senate, I remain committed to ensuring the US remains Israel’s most steadfast and vital ally and that the ironclad friendship between our two countries continues to grow and prosper." SOURCEI I
Hutchison, SusanRChallengerWA
BALDWIN, TAMMYDIncumbentWI2013/1/03$431,381.00 J-Street, Joint Action Committee for Political Affairs

The only PAC that works for some Palestinian rights is J Street, which calls itself "The Home for pro-Israel, pro-peace Americans."


Most of J Street’s positions are pro-Israel:

  • It does not recognize Palestinians' right to land that has been confiscated by Israel
  • It opposes BDS, the international boycott movement against Israel
  • It supports giving Israel billions of dollars of U.S. aid
  • It opposes Palestinians' wish to engage the ICC,
  • Opposed the Goldstone Report, etc.


However, J Street also takes some positions counter to those of the Israeli government:

  • it opposes Israeli settlements,
  • sometimes opposes Israel’s more violent actions,
  • supports a state for Palestinians (albeit a very small one),
  • opposes war with Iran
  • and is condemned by a great many Israel partisans (e.g. Alan Dershowitz) and pro-Israel donors to be “anti-Israel” and “pro-Palestinian.”


For these reasons, it is fairly courageous for a candidate to be associated with J Street, since many Israel partisans will likely oppose the individual in favor of a candidate whose positions are more hardline

Since association with J Street denotes both support for Israel and for some Palestinian rights, we are giving candidates associated with it 1 pro-Israel point and 1 pro-Palestinian point.

SOURCE

Further Reading
Further Reading
IIIIIIIIIIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIIPPPPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsorIIYayIYayIN/AN/AN/AN/A
(see comment)
SignedIISignedIISignedIINoPPYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceIIN/AN/A1/9/09 (BALDWIN WAS IN THE HOUSE AT THIS TIME, NOT THE SENATE) "The current violence in Gaza is of great concern to me and many of my constituents who have called or written to express their opinions and sorrow. Today, I voted in support of H. Res. 34, recognizing Israel's right to defend itself against attacks from Gaza, reaffirming the United States' strong support for Israel, and supporting the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. I want to be clear that my vote in no way condones the loss of innocent civilian lives or any disruptions in humanitarian assistance reaching Gaza. I firmly believe it is imperative that both Israel and Hamas work together toward a durable and sustainable cease-fire, and I am hopeful that the incoming Obama administration will lead an effort to forge a lasting peace in the Middle East. My heart goes out to the many innocent victims of this conflict." SOURCEI I6/16/10 RE: Israel's Attack on Humanitarian Ship, Mavi Marmara: “I was deeply troubled to learn of the violence and loss of life when six ships delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip were attacked last week. My heart goes out to the many innocent victims...The situation on the ground in Gaza is dire: The flow of humanitarian goods has been limited to food and medicine, and Israel continues to block the importation of construction materials and fuel necessary for reconstruction. I have consistently voiced my strong opposition to the blockade and the restrictions on humanitarian aid reaching those who are suffering, and will continue to do so. This event underscores the urgency of securing an enduring peace in the Middle East. United States leadership is essential in that process. As a strong supporter of both the Israeli and Palestinian peoples, I firmly believe it is imperative that the leaders of both Israel and Palestine work together toward a durable and sustainable cease-fire. I will never waver from my belief that peace is possible no matter what the circumstances." SOURCEP1/1/11 “Addressing the plight of the Palestinian people must be a part of any long-term solution [to the Israel/Palestine conflict]. It is simply unacceptable for the Palestinian people to spend another fifty years living in refugee camps. Creating political stability is a prerequisite for developing economic opportunity and hope for the future. All sides need to take immediate steps to break the cycle of violence so that long-term peace negotiations can resume. Each side must assume responsibility for stopping the escalation of violence and retaliation." SOURCEP
Vukmir, LeahRChallengerWI$500.00
MANCHIN, JOEDIncumbentWV2010/11/15$285,599.00 NORPAC, Citizens Organized PAC, Desert Caucus, Friends of Israel, To Protect Our Heritage PAC, Heartland PAC, Louisiana for American Security, Grand Canyon State CaucusIIIIIIIIIIICosponsorIIIYayIICosponsorIIICosponsor
(see comment)
IIICosponsorIIIPCosponsorIIICosponsorIIICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IIYayIN/ASignedIISignedIISignedIIYesIIYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceII“The timing is in the diplomacy of it. Does it cause more friction and more problems than what we need right now, or can we go ahead and put a timetable to it? I don’t think with all of the negotiations going on right now that we need to be in a situation that will make things a little bit more challenging." SOURCEI2/10/17 Re anti-BDS bill: "This bipartisan legislation gives state and local governments a legal way to combat the shameful boycott, divestment and sanctions movement against Israel," said Democratic senator for West Virginia Joe Manchin, a co-sponsor of the bill. SOURCEI I12/23/16 U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the following statement on the UN resolution on Israel settlements: "I urge the Obama Administration to veto the United Nations resolution demanding an end to Israeli settlement building. I support two-party negotiations to reach agreement on any settlement issues, and this U.N. resolution is not the way to pursue peace between the Palestinian Authority and the State of Israel." SOURCEI IN/A6/5/17 "The Unification of Jerusalem in 1967 is a significant event in the history of the State of Israel," Senator Manchin said. "That year became a pivotal moment for the holy city of Jerusalem as the State of Israel abolished laws of religious persecution and allowed the city to become a home for people of all religions to freely exercise their faith. I am proud to join my colleagues in cosponsoring a bipartisan resolution commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Unification of Jerusalem. This resolution reaffirms the unwavering support for one of our greatest allies by recognizing Jerusalem, a united city in which all religions are respected and valued, as the capital of the State of Israel. Not only does this resolution continue to declare a strong show of support for one of our greatest friends and their commitment to the free exercise of all religions but it affirms that peace between Israelis and Palestinians can only be achieved through direct, bilateral negotiations." SOURCEI I5/30/14 "I don’t see a pathway to negotiations that can lead to peace unless the Palestinians openly, to the free press and in their native language, are able to acknowledge that the Israelis, the native people of Israel, have a right to their own state." SOURCEI I
Morrisey, PatrickRChallengerWVRepublican Jewish CoalitionIIII
BARRASSO, JOHNRIncumbentWY2007/6/25$211,250.00 NORPAC, Florida Congressional Committee, National Action Committee, American Principles, To Protect Our Heritage PAC, Americans United in Support of Democracy, Washington PAC, National PAC, NORPACGrand Canyon State Caucus, Americans for Good GovernmentIIIIIIIIIIIIINayPPPPPPYayIICosponsorIIIYay
(see comment)
ICosponsorIIYayICosponsor
(see comment)
IICosponsorIICosponsor
(see comment)
IIYayIYayISignedIISignedIISignedIIYesIIYesIIYESISilenceIISilenceIII support [moving the embassy to Jerusalem]. I think it's the right thing to do.  SOURCEI“Obviously, our hearts go out to all of those families involved. There will be justice, I believe that. We hear that from the ambassador. There's obviously emotions, there's been revenge, senseless violence—and you worry about it spiraling downward." SOURCE“I oppose the decision of the Palestinian Authority to seek a declaration of statehood by the United Nations. The unilateral action of the Palestinian Authority is intended to circumvent the peace process.  It is not a good faith effort to achieve peace in the Middle East but to me rather it is a political maneuver. Instead of embarking on the time consuming campaign to gain support in the United Nations General Assembly, the Palestinian leadership should be working directly with Israel on creating a real and sustainable peace agreement. The quest for recognition by the United Nations is part of a terrible, emerging trend from the Palestinian Authority. The Palestinian Authority continues to engage in troubling behavior that is contrary to peace. The quest for recognition by the United Nations is part of a terrible, emerging trend from the Palestinian Authority.  The Palestinian Authority continues to engage in troubling behavior that is contrary to peace." SOURCEI I5/19/17 U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) spoke on Thursday at an event in Washington, DC, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the unity of Jerusalem in the Six Day War. Barrasso promised the people of Israel, “We stand singly with you. We’ll continue to do that in every way, and that’s not a Republican position, that’s not a Democrat position. It’s an American position." SOURCEI I
Trauner, GaryDChallengerWY$18,300.00 unknown
 
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