Context:

The North Carolina Democratic Party's executive committee passed a controversial resolution in June, calling for an immediate arms embargo on Israel, which has divided opinions within the party. While some Jewish Democrats support the resolution as consistent with their advocacy for Palestinian human rights, others view it as divisive. The resolution's passage reflects ongoing tensions within the Democratic Party regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict, similar to previous divisions observed during the November election. Prominent state leaders, including the party chair and North Carolina's governor, have abstained from commenting on the resolution. The resolution's supporters believe it aligns with the values of Democratic voters, especially younger demographics, while opponents fear it could distract from more pressing issues like healthcare and housing costs.

Dive Deeper:

• The resolution, passed by the North Carolina Democratic Party, explicitly calls for an embargo on military aid and weapons transfers to Israel, accusing the state of committing genocide and apartheid. This move has garnered support from various groups within the party, including the African American Caucus, the Arab Caucus, and the Jewish Democrats.

• There is a significant generational divide within the Democratic Party regarding support for Israel, with younger Democrats less inclined to back military support compared to their older counterparts. A survey indicates that only 38% of Democrats under 45 support military aid to Israel until hostages are returned, compared to 48% of older Democrats.

• The resolution's passage is part of a broader trend among Democratic state parties, as similar resolutions critical of Israel have been passed in states like Wisconsin and Washington. However, North Carolina's resolution is unique in its explicit call for an arms embargo.

• Concerns have been raised about the resolution's potential impact on the Democratic Party's unity, especially with upcoming Senate races where cohesion is crucial. Some party members argue that focusing on divisive issues could hinder efforts to address more critical, consensus-driven topics that voters prioritize.

• State leaders, including Governor Josh Stein and former Governor Roy Cooper, have chosen not to comment on the resolution. The resolution passed with a narrow margin of 161-151, and there is no public record of the proceedings or who supported the measure.

• The resolution's supporters, like Reem Subei of the Arab Caucus, view it as a testament to grassroots organizing and a reflection of local issues, emphasizing the importance of investing taxpayer dollars domestically while advocating for human rights globally.

• Critics, such as Lisa Jewel of the Jewish Caucus, argue that the resolution could exacerbate antisemitism and distract from pressing issues like healthcare cuts and housing costs. The Jewish Caucus was established in response to perceived growing antisemitism within the party.