Democratic strategist James Carville expressed concerns on Wednesday about anti-Israel activists associated with the Democratic Party potentially harming its image. He emphasized that “most anti-Semites are not Democrats.”
In a discussion on Jim Acosta’s podcast, Carville conveyed his worries about a growing rift surrounding Israel and anti-Semitism. He suggested this divide could have electoral and moral repercussions if the perception develops that Democrats are endorsing hatred.
“This kind of anti-Semitic stuff is disgusting! It’s a real problem,” he stated. He made it clear that the issue is not just a figment of imagination but is indeed worsening.
While acknowledging some anti-Israel activists are part of the Democratic narrative, he noted that many do not actually belong to the party, despite how they might be associated during campus protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
“And the fact that we have some Democrats, most of them are not Democrats, okay?” Carville remarked. He recalled an incident at Columbia University where protesters targeted Joe Biden, attributing blame to the Democratic Party for the actions of individuals not aligned with it.
He also cautioned that the loudest voices expressing anti-Israel sentiments are overshadowing the entire party. “I don’t want to be part of a political party that condones and sometimes even encourages hatred,” Carville stated. He maintained that while the majority of Democrats likely do not endorse such views, it’s the vocal minority that captures attention.
These reflections emerged as the Democratic Party navigates internal tensions following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack and Israel’s military response. The situation has spurred protests at universities and intensified debates over U.S. support for Israel within the party.
Carville, a long-time supporter of Israel, articulated that criticism of the Israeli government should not be mistaken for animosity towards the nation or its people. “You can attack the Israeli government all you want. I don’t like it. I can’t stand it,” he said. Yet, he emphasized that support for Israel should remain clear, separating government actions from the citizens.
Carville expressed disappointment over the failure of previous Middle East peace efforts but remained hopeful about future reconciliation. “I love Israel. I don’t understand it,” he shared. “I have nothing against them. I like Palestinians. They are one of the greatest people I know.”
He lamented that if more effort had been put into negotiations historically, significant progress could have been made. “We should get back to it because the neocons killed it,” he concluded.
