02-16-2024, 07:49 PM
(02-16-2024, 07:43 PM)Belsnickel Wrote: I would say it does. The mainstream Democratic politicians that are in these conversations are talking about putting the same sorts of conditions on aid to Israel as we put on aid to other countries, including Ukraine, not cutting off the aid. Whereas the mainstream GOP position in the House right now seems to be not sending aid to Ukraine at all.
If it was only aid with conditions, then sure. But it's not, it's no aid at all.
https://www.axios.com/2024/02/15/foreign-aid-house-democrats-progressives-tensions
Why it matters: Israel has proven a consistent and often highly charged wedge in Democrats' otherwise unified front this congressional session.
What they're saying: Several members of the progressive "Squad" told Axios that they are firmly opposed the bill.
"There's no way I'm voting to send more money for war," said Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.).
Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) said she would "vote no" on the bill.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) cited the bill's blanket ban on funding for UNRWA, a key Palestinian refugee agency, telling Axios "a lot [of] members find that rather offensive and appalling."
Zoom out: It's not just Squad members who have misgivings Progressive Caucus Chair Pramila Jayapal told Axios, "I can't vote for aid to Israel."
Jayapal said the conditions on aid to Gaza, including restrictions on UNRWA funding, are also "troubling" and "would be a problem for me."
Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas) said he is a "supporter of actual defensive capabilities for Israel," but "offensive operations like what's happening in Rafah [are] very hard for me."
"When you're seeing what's happening in Rafah, it's impossible for me to be able to fund something like that," said Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.).
State of play: House Republicans are refusing to hold a vote
There's some hard "no's" in there, not tied to any conditions. So I reiterate, does that make does member supporters of Hamas?
