Progressives in Congress have been divided in their support for President Joe Biden, particularly regarding his handling of Israel’s war on Gaza. While some members of the Squad have expressed enthusiastic support for Biden, others have chosen not to endorse him for reelection. This divide among progressives has raised questions about why the Squad, in particular, is backing Biden so forcefully.
At least four members of the Squad, including Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley, and Cori Bush, have expressed their support for Biden. Rep. Rashida Tlaib, however, has stated that she will not endorse the president for reelection. Rep. Summer Lee has also indicated that she would support Vice President Kamala Harris if Biden were to step down.
Media outlets have been curious about why the Squad is backing Biden so strongly compared to other Democrats. Some progressive strategists believe that their support for Biden is driven by pragmatic reasons and a desire to protect their own political futures. They suggest that there is a divide among progressives between those who feel the need to show loyalty to Biden and those who are more willing to remain silent.
Not all members of the Squad have taken a stance on Biden’s campaign. Reps. Greg Casar, Delia Ramirez, and Jamaal Bowman have not weighed in on whether Biden should stay in the race. Their silence may be influenced by their own political ambitions or priorities.
The Squad’s previous opposition to Biden’s funding for Israel’s war on Gaza has shifted towards support for his campaign as the presidential election approaches. However, Tlaib remains one of the few voices withholding her endorsement due to Biden’s stance on Israel. Even before the debate, Omar reiterated her support for Biden despite his handling of Gaza.
While some members of the Squad have expressed strong support for Biden, others have been more cautious in their statements. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, for example, expressed support for Biden but also stated that she was “listening carefully” to members. This cautious approach has invited criticism from progressives who believe that the Squad has diluted their strong opposition to Biden’s policy towards Israel.
In conclusion, the Squad’s support for Biden has been divided, with some members endorsing him enthusiastically and others choosing not to endorse him. This divide reflects a broader division among progressives and raises questions about their motivations and political ambitions. While some members see the need to show loyalty to Biden, others are more willing to remain silent or support alternative candidates. Ultimately, the Squad’s stance on Biden’s campaign may have implications for their own political futures and the future direction of progressive politics in the United States.
