Why Jewish and Non-Jewish Zionists Must Vote for Harris and Walz in 2024?

In 2024, the United States faces a pivotal election, one that could define the future not only of the country but also of its values and its global standing. This election is not merely about political preferences or ideological differences; it is about safeguarding democracy itself. For American Zionists—both Jewish and non-Jewish—the stakes are even higher. The rise of authoritarianism, anti-democratic forces, and the far-right has put American Zionism at risk in ways that we could not have imagined just a decade ago. The Harris/Walz 2024 ticket stands as a bulwark against these dangers, offering a pathway to a more inclusive, democratic, and secure future for all Americans, including those who support the continued strength of the US-Israel relationship.

Project 2025: A Dark Vision for America

To understand the urgency of this election, one must first look at Project 2025, a far-right initiative with alarming implications for the future of American democracy. This blueprint for a post-Trump administration envisions a government radically transformed to serve the interests of the far-right, rather than the broader American public. Among its most sinister elements is its approach to dismantling critical democratic institutions that have long safeguarded the rights of minorities, including Jewish Americans.

Project 2025 seeks to consolidate executive power in unprecedented ways, aiming to weaken checks and balances by neutering the judiciary and hollowing out independent agencies. This project has a clear authoritarian ambition, undermining civil liberties and human rights protections, and it bears alarming similarities to the tactics employed by autocratic regimes around the world. In its most extreme form, Project 2025 envisions a state where dissent is crushed, democratic norms are subverted, and the protections for vulnerable communities—including the Jewish community—are significantly weakened.

As American Zionists, we must recognize that our values are inextricably tied to the preservation of democracy. Zionism, at its core, is about self-determination and the protection of a people who have been historically marginalized and oppressed. How can we, in good conscience, support a movement that seeks to impose authoritarian rule on a country that has long been a beacon of freedom and democracy? The answer is simple: we cannot.

Donald Trump’s Authoritarian Aspirations

Donald Trump, who remains the de facto leader of the far-right, has made his authoritarian aspirations clear. His recent remarks about wanting “generals like Hitler had” reveal a dangerous and troubling mindset. Hitler’s generals were complicit in some of the most heinous crimes in human history, and for an American leader to express admiration for such figures is not only reprehensible but also deeply alarming. Trump’s rhetoric, which increasingly mirrors that of fascist dictators, should be a wake-up call for all who value democracy, freedom, and human dignity.

Trump’s flirtation with authoritarianism is not limited to his words; his actions as president showed a clear disregard for democratic norms. From attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election to inciting a violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, Trump has demonstrated time and again that he is willing to subvert democracy to maintain power. His attacks on the media, the judiciary, and other democratic institutions further illustrate his desire to govern as an autocrat rather than as a servant of the people.

For American Zionists, Trump’s authoritarian tendencies should be especially concerning. Historically, authoritarian regimes have not been kind to Jewish populations. From the pogroms in Tsarist Russia to the horrors of the Holocaust, authoritarianism has often gone hand-in-hand with antisemitism. Trump’s admiration for dictators, his willingness to incite violence, and his disregard for democratic norms should raise red flags for anyone concerned about the future of Jewish safety and security in the United States.

Inciting Violence Against Jewish Americans

Perhaps most troubling of all is Trump’s role in inciting violence against Jewish Americans. His refusal to condemn white supremacists and neo-Nazis, his dog-whistle rhetoric, and his tacit support for antisemitic conspiracy theories have emboldened the far-right and created an environment in which Jewish Americans are increasingly targeted. The rise in antisemitic incidents during Trump’s presidency is not a coincidence; it is the direct result of a leader who has consistently failed to stand up to bigotry and hate.

One of the most disturbing examples of Trump’s complicity in stoking antisemitism is his infamous response to the 2017 Charlottesville rally, where white supremacists marched through the streets chanting “Jews will not replace us.” Instead of unequivocally condemning these extremists, Trump claimed there were “very fine people on both sides.” This false equivalency not only emboldened white nationalists but also signaled to Jewish Americans that their safety was not a priority for the president of the United States.

Since Charlottesville, antisemitic attacks have continued to rise. The massacre at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, where 11 Jewish worshippers were murdered, was a chilling reminder of the real-world consequences of hate speech and incitement. Trump’s failure to take meaningful action against antisemitism, and his continued use of divisive and inflammatory rhetoric, has only worsened the situation. For American Zionists, supporting a leader who turns a blind eye to antisemitic violence is unconscionable.

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz: Champions of Democracy and Equality

In stark contrast to Trump and his authoritarian ambitions, Kamala Harris and Tim Walz offer a vision of America that is rooted in democratic values, equality, and justice. Both Harris and Walz have long histories of standing up for marginalized communities, including the Jewish community, and their commitment to human rights and democratic governance is unquestionable.

Kamala Harris, as the current vice president, has been a steadfast ally of the Jewish community and a vocal advocate for the U.S.-Israel relationship. She has consistently spoken out against antisemitism and has worked to strengthen ties between the United States and Israel. Her support for Israel is not just about geopolitics; it is about a deep commitment to ensuring the security and self-determination of the Jewish people. Harris has also been a fierce advocate for democratic values, both at home and abroad. Her dedication to civil rights, voting rights, and the rule of law stands in stark contrast to the authoritarian tendencies of Donald Trump.

Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota, brings a similar commitment to democratic governance and equality. As governor, Walz has worked to create an inclusive and just society, one that rejects hate and bigotry in all its forms. He has been a vocal opponent of antisemitism and has taken concrete steps to address the rise of hate crimes in his state. Walz’s leadership during times of crisis, including the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder, has demonstrated his ability to unite people and foster a sense of community, even in the face of deep divisions.

Together, Harris and Walz offer a vision of America that is inclusive, democratic, and just. They understand that the strength of a democracy lies in its ability to protect the rights of all its citizens, including minorities and marginalized communities. For American Zionists, this is the kind of leadership that we should support.

The Importance of Voting in 2024

The 2024 election is not just another political contest; it is a battle for the soul of the nation. The forces of authoritarianism, led by Donald Trump and his allies, are determined to reshape America in their image—an image that is antithetical to the values of democracy, equality, and justice. For American Zionists, the choice could not be clearer: we must stand with those who are committed to preserving the democratic principles that have made the United States a beacon of hope and freedom.

The Harris/Walz ticket represents a return to these principles. Their commitment to democracy, their rejection of hate and bigotry, and their support for the Jewish community make them the clear choice for American Zionists in 2024. By voting for Harris and Walz, we are not just casting a vote for a political party; we are casting a vote for the future of American democracy.

The Threat to U.S.-Israel Relations Under a Trump Presidency

Another critical issue for American Zionists to consider is the impact of a potential second Trump presidency on U.S.-Israel relations. While Trump has often touted his pro-Israel credentials, his actions have been more about self-aggrandizement than genuine support for the Jewish state. His decision to move the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, while symbolically significant, was not accompanied by meaningful diplomatic engagement to ensure long-term peace and stability in the region. Moreover, Trump’s erratic behavior and willingness to undermine democratic institutions at home should give pause to anyone who values the U.S.-Israel relationship.

A Trump-led America is a weakened America, and a weakened America is not in Israel’s best interest. The strength of the U.S.-Israel relationship has always been rooted in shared democratic values. A United States that abandons its commitment to democracy and embraces authoritarianism would be a less reliable partner for Israel. Furthermore, Trump’s isolationist tendencies and his penchant for alienating traditional allies could leave Israel more vulnerable on the global stage.

In contrast, Kamala Harris and Tim Walz understand the importance of a strong and stable U.S.-Israel relationship, one that is built on mutual respect and shared democratic values. They recognize that Israel’s security is inextricably linked to the stability of the broader Middle East, and they are committed to working diplomatically to ensure that Israel remains safe and secure. For American Zionists, this kind of steady, principled leadership is far more beneficial than the unpredictable, self-serving approach of Donald Trump.

Fighting Antisemitism: A Moral Imperative

One of the most pressing issues for American Zionists in 2024 is the rise of antisemitism, both in the United States and around the world. The Trump presidency saw a marked increase in antisemitic incidents, and his failure to forcefully condemn hate groups has contributed to a climate of fear and uncertainty for Jewish Americans. The 2024 election presents an opportunity to reverse this trend and to elect leaders who will take a strong stand against antisemitism in all its forms.

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz have both demonstrated a deep commitment to fighting antisemitism and hate. They understand that antisemitism is not just a Jewish issue; it is a human rights issue, and it must be confronted wherever it arises. Their leadership offers a stark contrast to Donald Trump, who has repeatedly failed to distance himself from white supremacists and other hate groups.

By voting for Harris and Walz, American Zionists can help to ensure that the fight against antisemitism is a top priority for the next administration. This is not just about protecting the Jewish community; it is about standing up for the values of tolerance, equality, and human dignity that are at the heart of both American democracy and Zionism.

Conclusion: A Vote for Democracy, Equality, and Zionism

In 2024, American Zionists face a critical choice. The Harris/Walz ticket offers a path forward that is rooted in democracy, equality, and justice—values that are central to both American and Zionist ideals. Donald Trump and his allies, on the other hand, represent a dangerous turn toward authoritarianism, a rejection of democratic norms, and a tacit embrace of antisemitism.

For Jewish and non-Jewish Zionists alike, the choice is clear. Voting for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz is not just about supporting a political party; it is about defending democracy, standing up against hate, and ensuring a future where the U.S.-Israel relationship remains strong and secure. It is about rejecting the dark vision of Project 2025 and the authoritarian aspirations of Donald Trump. And most importantly, it is about ensuring that America remains a land of freedom, justice, and opportunity for all.