Ocasio-Cortez Outpacing Schumer in Polls
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a member of the “Squad,” appears to be gaining significant ground on Senator Chuck Schumer in the primary race, as a recent poll indicates troubling trends for the incumbent among Democratic voters. The research, conducted by Hongan Strategy Group for the Behavior Network of Jewish Voters, shows Ocasio-Cortez leading with 54% to Schumer’s 33% among New York’s Democratic electorate.
AOC, 35, currently serving in the House of Representatives, also has a notable lead among Jewish Democrats, winning 45% to Schumer’s 33%, with 17% of voters still undecided. This shift seems to be a wake-up call for Schumer, who has relied on the Jewish community as a cornerstone of support throughout his political career.
Maury Litwack, co-founder of the Jewish Voters Action Network, suggested that these numbers reflect dissatisfaction with Schumer more than enthusiasm for Ocasio-Cortez, who identifies as a democratic socialist. It’s a complex situation—while Ocasio-Cortez has been vocal about issues like Israel’s actions in Gaza, critics have noted Schumer’s perceived inaction during rising anti-Semitic sentiments in the U.S.
Litwack expressed concern over Schumer’s leadership, pointing out, “The leading Jewish elected officials did not step up at a moment of rising anti-Semitism, and the polls reflect that.” He also highlighted Schumer’s failure to pass crucial legislation aimed at addressing anti-Semitism during the Democrats’ control of the Senate and White House.
Interestingly, Schumer was recently criticized for allegedly advising Columbia University to overlook accusations of anti-Semitism, a claim he firmly denies. This contradiction, along with his recent criticisms of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and internal party tensions, has left Schumer vulnerable to criticism from both sides.
Despite having authored a book on anti-Semitism, his actions have come under scrutiny for not aligning with his stated beliefs. The backlash from progressive factions within the party has intensified, especially after he voted on a government funding bill that displeased many.
The poll, conducted between May 15-18 among 1,136 Democrats, carries a margin of error of 2.89 percentage points. As of now, Schumer’s office has not publicly commented on these polling results, leaving many to wonder about the implications for his future in politics.
