Poll: American Jews Back Israel But Criticize Netanyahu And Aid Levels
A new poll reveals that while American Jews support Israel post-October 7, 56% worry Benjamin Netanyahu's actions fuel anti-Semitism. Additionally, 52% support cutting or reducing U.S. military aid.
American Jews continue to support Israel's actions since the October 7 massacre, but they also express deep criticism of the country and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to a new poll by the Mellman Group for the Jewish Electorate Institute. A majority of respondents are concerned that Netanyahu's policies and actions have fueled anti-Semitic and anti-Israel sentiments across the United States.
While this sentiment is more widespread among Democrats, one-third of Republican Jews also share deep concerns. The survey highlights significant political divides over critical issues, including foreign aid. Overall, 52% of American Jews support cutting or eliminating U.S. aid to Israel, with 17% favoring the complete cancellation of the $3.3 billion annual military assistance and 36% preferring a reduction. Meanwhile, 40% believe funding should remain at current levels, and 8% remain unsure.
Partisan polarization heavily influences these views. Nearly two-thirds of Democrats (63%) support cutting or terminating aid, whereas roughly two-thirds of Republicans (67%) and independents (65%) advocate for maintaining current funding levels. Despite these divisions, political repercussions remain for lawmakers who vote in favor of reductions. Nearly half of respondents (47%) say they would be less likely to support a member of Congress who votes to cut aid, compared to only 21% who view such a vote favorably.
Concerns Over Anti-Semitism and Political Rhetoric
Beyond military assistance, American Jews express significant anxiety regarding rising rhetoric within both major political parties. Nearly half of respondents are deeply worried about anti-Semitic discourse within the Republican Party (48%) and the Democratic Party (44%). Within their respective political homes, roughly three in ten partisans express strong concern over extremism in their own ranks, including 29% of Republicans and 34% of Democrats.
Furthermore, 56% of American Jews express severe concern that Israel's actions under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have directly contributed to a surge in anti-Semitism and anti-Israel hostility in the U.S. This perspective is shared by 65% of Jewish Democrats, 46% of independents, and 34% of Republicans.
