A significant number of Wisconsin Democrats, more than 8%, voted “uninstructed” in the state’s primary as a way to send a message to President Joe Biden about his stance on the war in Gaza. The grassroots campaign, Listen To Wisconsin, aimed to mobilize voters to demand a policy change and received support that far exceeded their initial goal. More than 47,000 votes were cast in this manner, with the turnout attributed to the campaign’s extensive outreach efforts and a message that resonated widely with voters. This call for action from Biden comes as a reminder of his narrow victory in Wisconsin in 2020 and the need to listen to the concerns of voters who may feel alienated.
Similar protest votes have been observed in other states like Michigan and Minnesota, with a noticeable number of Democratic voters choosing to vote “uncommitted.” In Michigan, over 13% of Democratic voters did so, while in Minnesota, a surprising 20% cast their ballot for “uncommitted,” surpassing the support for Rep. Dean Phillips. Delegates from these movements will be present at the Democratic convention in August, highlighting the growing dissent within the party. While Wisconsin’s “uninstructed” voters fell short of the minimum threshold to send delegates, the message remains clear – voters want a change in policy regarding the situation in Gaza.
The dissatisfaction among Democratic voters stems from Biden’s unwavering support for Israel’s actions in Gaza, where a significant number of Palestinians have lost their lives. Criticisms have been directed at Israel for its response, which has included targeting aid workers, limiting aid, and attacking hospitals. Organizers of the uncommitted campaigns warn that Biden’s stance on Gaza could impact his chances of re-election in November if he does not change course, such as by calling for a cease-fire and reinstating aid to Palestinian relief efforts. Public opinion, including among likely Democratic voters, overwhelmingly supports a permanent cease-fire and de-escalation of violence in Gaza.
The bipartisan call for action in Gaza extends beyond traditional party lines, with a majority of U.S. voters supporting a cease-fire. This sentiment is shared by both Muslim and Jewish Democrats, as evident from polls conducted in December and February. The belief that bombing innocent lives is not a sustainable solution transcends political affiliations and underscores the need for politicians to heed the voices of their constituents. The success of the uncommitted campaigns in multiple states reflects the growing momentum behind the movement and the importance of addressing the concerns of voters at a national level.
Kyle Johnson, the political director for Wisconsin’s uninstructed campaign, emphasizes the need for continued organization and escalation of tactics to ensure that politicians do not ignore the demands of the electorate. By coming together and making waves, voters can hold their representatives accountable and push for meaningful change in policies that align with their values. The coordinated efforts of grassroots movements like Listen To Wisconsin serve as a reminder of the power of collective action in influencing political decisions and shaping the future direction of the country. In the lead-up to the Democratic convention in August, the presence of delegates from the uncommitted movements will serve as a visible representation of the growing discontent within the party and the urgent need for a reevaluation of Biden’s approach to the conflict in Gaza.
