Rebuilding Bipartisan Support for Israel: Insights from Nancy Jacobson

Nancy Jacobson, Founder and CEO of the No Labels political organization, addressed the diminishing bipartisan support for Israel during the Jerusalem Post Miami Summit. Historically, support for Israel from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers was robust and unwavering. Jacobson highlighted significant collaborative efforts, such as the US–Israel Free Trade Agreement and the co-development of the Iron Dome missile-defense system, which were achieved through bipartisan consensus. However, she noted that this consensus has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years from both political extremes.

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Jacobson emphasized the mission of No Labels, an organization she co-founded with the late Senator Joseph Lieberman, which aims to foster collaboration across party lines. She asserted that the center of both political parties still exists but requires organization and protection to remain effective. No Labels plans to convene a working group focused on Middle East policy, aiming to strengthen economic ties between the United States and its allies, including Israel. Jacobson proposed that restoring bipartisan support may necessitate a reevaluation of traditional narratives and a shift towards viewing Israel as a partner in innovation rather than merely a recipient of aid.

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Jacobson stated, “Israel doesn’t just need American power. It needs American bipartisanship,” underscoring the importance of unity in U.S. support for Israel. She expressed confidence in the potential for leaders to emerge who can help rebuild this consensus, asserting, “Leadership matters. Unity matters.”

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While Jacobson's views reflect a desire for renewed bipartisan support, there are dissenting perspectives regarding the feasibility of such an initiative. Critics argue that the current political climate is too polarized for effective collaboration on foreign policy issues, including support for Israel. Some voices within the Democratic Party advocate for a reevaluation of U.S. aid to Israel, suggesting that a more critical stance may be necessary in light of ongoing conflicts.

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In the coming months, No Labels will actively work to convene leaders from both parties to discuss Middle East policy and explore innovative partnerships with Israel. Jacobson's commitment to fostering bipartisan dialogue highlights the ongoing efforts to address the challenges facing U.S.-Israel relations.

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• “but both parties found a way to come together.” — Nancy Jacobson, Founder and CEO of No Labels

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• “Rebuilding the bipartisan consensus around Israel may require rethinking old narratives and recasting the debate,” — Nancy Jacobson, Founder and CEO of No Labels

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• “I am confident that if we do that, leaders of courage will help rebuild the bipartisan consensus toward Israel,” — Nancy Jacobson, Founder and CEO of No Labels

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