June 2, 2010

Jewish Dems to Marcy Winograd: Support Two States

Listed in: Israel, NJDC News, Press Releases

WASHINGTON, DC- Next week, Representative Jane Harman (D-CA) will face a primary showdown from challenger Marcy Winograd. A key difference between the two candidates is their support for Israel. Harman is a staunch advocate for Israel and supports a negotiated two-state solution to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, placing her within the mainstream. Winograd, in complete contrast, supports a bi-national one-state solution—the same solution supported by some of Israel’s fiercest detractors. 

 

Winograd recently said of a two-state solution:

 

“Not only do I think a two-state solution is unrealistic, but also fundamentally wrong, because it only reinforces heightened nationalism. You cannot establish a democracy in a state founded on the institutionalized superiority or exclusivity of one of [sic] religion, ethnicity or culture. I do not support the notion of an Islamic state or a Christian state any more than I support a Jewish state.”

 

Winograd also questioned the loyalty of Members of Congress who support Israel, saying “I would hope that all of our lawmakers would pledge allegiance to this country as the country they represent.”

 

Today, the National Jewish Democratic Council asked its membership and supporters to politely and respectfully take their concerns about Winograd’s position on Israel directly to her campaign. Ira Forman, CEO of the National Jewish Democratic Council, said of Winograd’s position:

 

“Winograd’s position on Israel stands in direct contrast to President Obama’s efforts to foster a two-state solution between the Israelis and the Palestinians. It’s also a slap in the face to the current leadership of Israel and the Palestinian Authority, who just received high praise from Obama’s Special Envoy for Middle East Peace, former Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell, because of their commitment to achieving a negotiated two-state solution.

 

“A one state solution means the end of Israel, period. Winograd needs to know that support for a one-state solution is not acceptable to Jews, Democrats, and those who care about peace with dignity for Israelis and Palestinians.”