Rep. Haley Stevens Criticizes Bernie Sanders Over Middle East Policy

Democratic Rep. Haley Stevens expressed concern over Sen. Bernie Sanders’ Middle East policy during an interview, accusing him of aligning with an anti-Zionist stance. Stevens raised questions about Sanders’ contributions to peace in the Middle East and Palestinian dignity, stating, “I really don’t know what Bernie Sanders has done for peace in the Middle East, for Palestinian dignity; I can’t think of anything he’s totally done. It’s a sickness that needs to end.”

Stevens criticized Sanders’ repeated calls to end U.S. military aid to Israel and his strong criticism of the Israeli government. Stevens referred to anti-Zionism as a “hate movement” impacting America and the West, adding, “I believe that anti-Zionism is a hate movement that has taken over in America and throughout parts of the West.”

Despite Sanders’ vocal stance, his office did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Stevens commented on Israel, noting its complex role in America’s challenges, “I think that Israel is more than just a punching bag for some of the challenges that America is facing.”

While acknowledging issues with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him a “problem,” Stevens continued her criticism of Sanders. Stevens had endorsed Abdul El-Sayed after losing to him in the Michigan Senate primary. Stevens encouraged El-Sayed to distance himself from Hasan Piker, a contentious figure, suggesting, “It certainly makes sense to get rid of this Hasan Piker affiliation.” Stevens also highlighted the Democratic plans for healthcare, democracy, and support for Black-owned businesses as being superior to those of El-Sayed’s opponent Mike Rogers.

When asked about El-Sayed’s appeal to groups that supported Stevens, including Jewish and Black voters, Stevens emphasized her identification as a Zionist Democrat, noting her performance with those demographics, “I came really close [to winning the primary] and I’m still a Democrat. I’m still out here talking about my views and values.”

In response to Stevens’ comments, Qasim Rashid, a human rights lawyer, and radio host, expressed disappointment, warning, “It is a well-established fact that the Israeli government has targeted and killed civilians.” Rashid urged adherence to the Leahy laws, which call for halting funding to governments involved in mass human rights atrocities, warning of potential electoral risks, “And she’s also jeopardizing losing the state of Michigan to MAGA Republicans.”

Public opinion in America on Israel has shifted, as a poll revealed declining support predominantly among Democrats and independents. The NBC News poll showed a drop in positive views of Israel from 47% to 32%. The change comes amid ongoing political debates over support for Israel following the conflict between Israelis and Hamas in Gaza.