Opinion | There Is a Zionism That Needs the Support of Progressives

The writer argues that the debate over Zionism in the United States has become especially uncomfortable among progressive Democrats, citing Pew polling from 2024 showing sympathy shifting toward Palestinians among Democrats and those under 30. It also notes that some Democratic-leaning candidates avoid terms like “apartheid” or “genocide” when discussing Israel, and references examples of rhetoric from activist circles. The essay challenges critics who see Zionism as inherently incompatible with democratic liberalism, while also acknowledging complex tensions within Israeli politics. It highlights how even centrist leaders in Israel’s election campaign use “Zionist government” as a coalition signal amid wartime constraints, raising questions about what “democratic” means.