Notable Absences Among Democrats During Netanyahu's Congress Address

When Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivers an address to Congress at 2 p.m. ET on Wednesday, a significant number of Democrats will be conspicuously absent. This decision comes as more than a dozen lawmakers choose to skip the event, either as a form of protest against Netanyahu's policies or due to scheduling conflicts. The bipartisan invitation to the address was extended by Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, and it included endorsements from key Democratic leaders such as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, along with GOP Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

On October 7, 2023, the situation escalated dramatically when hundreds of Hamas militants launched a surprise attack in southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals—predominantly civilians—and the kidnapping of several hundred others. Israeli authorities have reported that around 120 hostages are still held in Gaza, but the fate of many remains uncertain. In retaliation, Israel has initiated an extensive air and ground offensive in Gaza, reportedly leading to over 39,000 Palestinian casualties, although this figure has not been independently verified by Newsweek.

Newsweek has compiled a list of prominent Democrats who have declared their intention to boycott Netanyahu's address. Notably, some attendees are vocal critics of the Israeli leader, such as New York House Democrat Jerry Nadler, who recently referred to Netanyahu as the "worst leader in Jewish history" over the last 2,100 years, yet plans to attend the address in pursuit of an Israel that can coexist peacefully with its neighbors. The office of Netanyahu was approached for comments by Newsweek but did not respond outside of standard office hours.

Vice President Kamala Harris

Vice President Kamala Harris, who is seen as the presumptive 2024 presidential candidate for her party following Joe Biden's announcement not to run again, has opted not to preside over the Senate during Netanyahu's address. Instead, as reported by The Washington Post, she will attend an event in Indianapolis. However, she is expected to meet with Netanyahu later in his visit. An aide clarified that her absence from the speech does not indicate a shift in her stance, as she previously advocated for a ceasefire and reaffirmed her strong commitment to Israeli security.

Senator Patty Murray

Senator Patty Murray, the president pro tempore of the Senate, has also declined to oversee Netanyahu's address. In her statement, she emphasized the need for a lasting and mutual ceasefire. "Securing a lasting, mutual ceasefire is of the utmost importance right now, and I will continue to push for one to be reached as soon as possible," she stated. She expressed hope that Prime Minister Netanyahu would take this opportunity to discuss his plans for establishing a ceasefire and achieving lasting peace in the region.

Senator Richard Durbin

Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin expressed his disapproval of Netanyahu's actions in Gaza, stating, "Israel's execution of its war in Gaza under the direction of Prime Minister Netanyahu with 39,000 Palestinians dead and 90,000 injured is a brutal strategy beyond any acceptable level of self-defense." He affirmed his support for Israel but clarified that he could not support Netanyahu's leadership during the upcoming Joint Session.

Senator Jeff Merkley

Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley announced on social media that he would not attend Netanyahu's address. He criticized the Israeli leader's military strategies, which he argued have resulted in heavy civilian casualties and prioritized political longevity over humanitarian needs. In his view, Netanyahu should not have the opportunity to speak before Congress, given the circumstances.

Senator Bernie Sanders

Independent Senator Bernie Sanders, who aligns with the Democratic caucus, stated that he would refrain from attending the address. He condemned both Netanyahu and Hamas leadership, calling them "war criminals." This reflects a growing sentiment among some lawmakers who are deeply concerned about the current humanitarian crisis and escalating violence.

Senator Chris Van Hollen

Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen articulated his decision to skip Netanyahu's speech, labeling him an "extremist" and criticizing his administration's connection with far-right politics in Israel. Such statements highlight the increasing divide within Congress regarding support for Israel amidst ongoing conflicts.

Senator Tim Kaine

Senator Tim Kaine announced that he would miss the address due to a prior commitment in Virginia. Despite his absence, he underscored the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to ensure the safety of both Israelis and U.S. service members, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian aid and hostages' release.

Representative Sara Jacobs

California Representative Sara Jacobs expressed her decision to boycott the address as a matter of personal conviction tied to her Jewish faith. She argued that political displays in Congress do not contribute to peace and instead distract from meaningful actions needed to resolve the ongoing conflict.

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

In a social media post, New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez condemned Netanyahu's leadership, asserting that the death toll of Palestinians and the ongoing hostage situation made attendance at the