James Kirchick, the author of “Secret City: The Hidden History of Gay Washington,” sheds light on a concerning incident involving Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Recently, a member of Vice President Kamala Harris’s 2024 presidential campaign vetting team inquired whether Shapiro had “ever been an agent of the Israeli government.” This question highlights a troubling trend within the Democratic Party regarding its treatment of American Jews.
The implication of dual loyalty in the question posed to Shapiro represents one of the oldest antisemitic tropes. Critics often mischaracterize Shapiro’s relationship with Israel, claiming he served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). In reality, Shapiro’s involvement was limited to a high school program that included tasks such as working on a kibbutz and volunteering at a military base. This misunderstanding may stem from a lack of accurate information on the part of Dana Remus, a former official in the Obama and Biden administrations, and Eric H. Holder Jr.
However, speculation suggests that the Harris campaign’s concerns about Shapiro were more deeply rooted in his vocal pro-Israel stance. This incident starkly contrasts with the 2000 presidential election, where Joe Lieberman was seen as a key asset to Al Gore’s campaign, reflecting a more favorable attitude towards pro-Israel figures within the party at that time.
The scrutiny Shapiro faces raises questions about a double standard, particularly given that individuals from various backgrounds have historically joined foreign armies motivated by idealism rather than mercenary interests. This issue highlights an apparent discomfort on the left regarding service in the Israeli military, contrasting sharply with the historical acceptance of Americans who have fought for other countries, such as those in the Abraham Lincoln Brigade during the Spanish Civil War.
The Lincoln Brigade, which included around 3,200 Americans, fought against fascism in Spain and faced significant backlash upon their return home. Notably, nearly half of the brigade’s members were Jewish, a fact often overlooked in current discussions about military service. Figures like President Ronald Reagan acknowledged the brigade’s efforts positively, citing a long-standing American tradition of fighting for freedom abroad.
Today, many who criticize Shapiro for his connections to the IDF seem to overlook the bravery of Americans serving in the Ukrainian military against Russian aggression or those who violated neutrality laws to serve in the Royal Air Force during World War II. There is a growing acknowledgment that progressives should reassess their stance on Jewish Americans with ties to Israel, particularly as Israel remains a critical ally to the U.S.
Kirchick also reflects on the dissonance within the progressive movement, noting a history where many have expressed support for America’s adversaries. This context emphasizes the need for greater awareness and sensitivity regarding the complex dynamics surrounding loyalty and identity in the discourse about American Jews and Israel. By fostering an environment of understanding and respect for diverse perspectives, the Democratic Party can move beyond past mistakes and better embrace the contributions and affiliations of Jewish Americans in the political landscape.