Staff Reports
Several Democratic operatives are fretting over potential anti-Israel protests at their upcoming nominating convention in Chicago. They fear that these demonstrations could harm President Joe Biden’s chances at reelection. The Democratic National Committee is reportedly considering ways to mitigate the impact of these protests, as many organizations plan to participate in the “March on the DNC” during the event.
Critics have targeted Biden for his support of Israel following a Hamas attack that resulted in significant casualties. Concerns have arisen that the optics of these protests could mirror the chaotic 1968 convention in Chicago, where Republican Richard Nixon went on to defeat Democrat Hubert Humphrey. Some Democrats worry that associating the party with these demonstrations could have a negative effect on the campaign.
Democrats worried anti-Israel riots at Chicago nominating convention could throw wrench in campaignhttps://t.co/VOWV51sCet
— Aerial SharpShooter ?????☠️ (@MMCBELL) May 28, 2024
Violent riots erupted during the 1968 Democratic convention, with protests against the Vietnam War taking center stage. Nixon, positioning himself as a “law and order” candidate, secured the GOP nomination and eventually won the presidency. While some fear a similar outcome this time, others are skeptical that Biden’s opponent, former President Donald Trump, could capitalize on the unrest.
Democrats are contemplating strategies to handle the convention, including limiting in-person speeches and moving some activities online. The party is cautious about the impact these protests may have on crucial voting blocs that traditionally support them. Biden has been facing challenges with black and youth voters, with polling indicating a decrease in support compared to previous elections.
Criticism towards Biden has also manifested in protest votes during Democratic primaries. Some voters have supported alternative ballot options, expressing dissatisfaction with the president’s handling of certain issues. Despite these challenges, not all Democrats are alarmed by the demonstrations, with some noting that protests are a common occurrence at party conventions and may not significantly impact election outcomes.
While Biden has struggled to lead in polls against Trump, particularly in battleground states, his campaign has not yet responded to queries about the potential impact of these protests. The upcoming convention poses a critical moment for Biden’s reelection bid, and how the party navigates these challenges could be decisive in shaping the campaign narrative.
