Florida — The Jewish Chronicle reports that almost two dozen pro‑Israel candidates won their party nominations in Florida’s primaries, defeating opponents who campaigned on anti‑Israel rhetoric or far‑left platforms.
Republican Highlights
- Rep. Byron Donalds won the gubernatorial primary to succeed Governor Ron DeSantis, defeating challengers including James Fishback, who ran on an anti‑Israel agenda. Donalds, a staunch supporter of Israel, will face David Jolly (Democrat) in November.
- Rep. Randy Fine, a Jewish lawmaker known for outspoken pro‑Israel views, defeated influencer Dan Bilzerian, who ran an openly antisemitic campaign that included Holocaust denial and pro‑Hitler references.
Democratic Highlights
- Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Jared Moskowitz, both Jewish incumbents, secured nominations in their districts after defeating challengers who accused Israel of genocide in Gaza.
- Angie Nixon, a progressive state representative and member of the Democratic Socialists of America, won the Democratic Senate primary against Alex Vindman. Nixon has previously called for an end to fighting in Gaza and aligned with Rep. Rashida Tlaib. She will face Republican Senator Ashley Moody in November, who is considered the strong favorite for re‑election.
Broader Context
- The primaries reflect deepening divides within the Democratic Party between pro‑Israel moderates and far‑left critics of Israel.
- On the Republican side, pro‑Israel candidates consolidated their positions, defeating challengers linked to the alt‑right and antisemitic movements.
- Analysts say the results underscore Florida’s role as a battleground for U.S. Israel policy, with Jewish voters playing a significant role in shaping outcomes.
Credit: The Jewish Chronicle Subscribe to the JFN Website and to the JFN WhatsApp Channel
