The Democratic Socialists of America’s (DSA) National Political Committee has announced the withdrawal of its endorsement for Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), citing her recent actions on issues related to antisemitism and Israel.
The decision comes after Ocasio-Cortez, a prominent DSA member, reportedly failed to meet conditions set in a June 23 conditional endorsement. These conditions primarily focused on Israel policy and included publicly opposing all support for Israel, including Iron Dome funding, and supporting the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement.
In a statement, the DSA said, “We have not seen evidence of AOC meeting these conditions.” The group also noted that many members had been “demanding that AOC demonstrate a higher level of commitment to Palestinian liberation.”
The DSA specifically objected to Ocasio-Cortez hosting a panel on antisemitism featuring Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs. The organization described this as “conflat[ing] anti-Zionism with antisemitism.”
Additionally, the DSA criticized Ocasio-Cortez for voting in favor of a resolution affirming Israel’s right to exist and for joining a statement that, while criticizing Israel’s operations in Gaza, expressed support for strengthening defense systems like Iron Dome.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who won her primary with over 80% of the vote, has not immediately responded to requests for comment on the DSA’s decision.
This move by the DSA echoes its previous withdrawal of endorsement from Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) over his trip to Israel and support for Iron Dome funding.
