As the 2028 US presidential election approaches, a growing shift in American attitudes toward Israel could signal a major change in US foreign policy. Long a cornerstone of US diplomacy, support for Israel is now increasingly controversial, with criticism of Israeli actions, rising antisemitism, and a trend toward isolationism challenging the once bipartisan commitment to the Jewish state.
The recent changes are clear. A few months ago, Vice President JD Vance was questioned at the University of Mississippi about the US’s support for Israel, with a student accusing the Jewish state of “ethnic cleansing” in Gaza. Vance, who was fresh off a trip to Israel, did not challenge the claim, instead emphasizing the need to prioritize American interests over foreign alliances.
This moment is just a small part of a larger political shift in the US. Both major political parties are grappling with how to address Israel, and the 2028 presidential race could feature candidates who are far less vocal in their support for the country. Just a few years ago, it was commonplace for presidential candidates from both parties to attend AIPAC’s annual conference and pledge unwavering support for Israel. Today, however, both the Democratic and Republican parties are increasingly divided on the issue.
Polling data underscores the shift. In 2016, 62% of Americans expressed sympathy for Israel, compared to just 15% for the Palestinians. Today, that gap has narrowed dramatically, with 46% of Americans sympathizing with Israel, while 33% sympathize with Palestinians. Among Democrats, support for Palestinians has surged, with 59% expressing sympathy for them, compared to only 21% for Israel.
This change in sentiment is a direct response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Many Americans, particularly younger voters, now view Israel’s actions in Gaza as disproportionate, with polls showing half of US voters believing Israel is committing genocide. These shifting views are evident in the Democratic Party, where figures like New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani openly criticize Israel and deny its legitimacy as a Jewish state.
On the Republican side, support for Israel is also waning, particularly among younger voters. A Brookings poll revealed that half of GOP voters aged 18-49 hold an unfavorable view of Israel, a worrying trend for those who have traditionally supported the alliance.
As Israel faces increasing isolation, both political parties in the US are reassessing their stance. While some candidates, like Vice President Harris, continue to express support for Israel, others are more critical. The question is no longer whether a candidate will claim to be “pro-Israel,” but what that term will mean in the future. In the past, support for Israel meant backing foreign aid, defending the country at the UN, and maintaining strong diplomatic ties. Today, that’s no longer guaranteed.
Three years out from the 2028 election, it’s still unclear whether the next US president will uphold the long-standing alliance with Israel or chart a new course. While candidates like Vance and Harris may profess support for Israel, it’s possible that the next president will move away from traditional pro-Israel policies, especially as younger generations demand a reevaluation of America’s foreign relationships.