The upcoming election in Pittsburgh and its suburbs has become a test for progressive Democrats in Congress who have criticized Israel’s handling of the conflict with Hamas. U.S. Rep. Summer Lee, aligned with the “squad,” is facing a challenge from Bhavini Patel, who frames Lee’s criticism of Israel as extreme and potentially damaging to President Biden’s reelection bid in a crucial state. The war has divided traditionally progressive groups, including Pittsburgh’s Jewish community, and is a potent issue in Lee’s district, which was the site of a deadly attack on a synagogue in 2018.
The April 23 primary will determine whether the war alone is enough to turn Democrats against Lee. If she is defeated, she would be the first Democratic incumbent in Congress to lose a primary this year. Lee has raised more money than Patel and has the backing of Pennsylvania’s Democratic establishment and various progressive groups. She has positioned herself as a hardworking representative who speaks up for marginalized communities and has called for a cease-fire in Gaza, setting her apart from Biden’s stance and that of most House Democrats.
Patel, a municipal councilwoman of Indian heritage, has courted the Jewish community and criticized Lee for aligning with the “uncommitted” campaign that protests Biden’s handling of the war. Lee defended the movement, stating that discouraging people from voting could harm Democrats’ effort to persuade voters to support Biden in the presidential election. She accused Patel of aligning more with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu than with Biden. The debate between Lee and Patel on the war has largely been limited to exchanges, with pro-Israel groups largely staying out of the race.
The war has had a significant presence on the University of Pittsburgh campus, with most students supporting a cease-fire. The College Democrats at Pitt have endorsed Lee unanimously, despite some division among members. One nonparty organization endorsed Patel, citing concerns that Lee’s politics could lead to a Trump victory and a surge in antisemitism. Lee has met with families affected by the war and emphasized the need for a cease-fire as the pathway to peace. The outcome of the election will shed light on the political implications of criticizing Israel’s handling of the conflict.
