Jewish Republican group criticizes Harris for not attending Netanyahu’s speech.

Attendees at Wednesday’s speech by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in front of a joint meeting of Congress may have noticed Vice President Kamala Harris’s absence. While the speaker of the House and the vice president usually preside over such events, Harris was notably missing as Netanyahu addressed Congress. Instead, she attended a previously scheduled luncheon with the Zeta Phi Beta sorority.

Although Harris and President Biden will meet with Netanyahu separately on Thursday, her absence from the speech has raised eyebrows. As the presumptive Democratic nominee for the 2024 election, Harris’s decision to skip Netanyahu’s address has drawn criticism. Some view Harris as being more sympathetic to the Palestinian cause than her boss, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

It’s worth noting that Harris is not alone in her decision to skip Netanyahu’s speech. Many Democrats in Congress, including prominent figures like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have also opted out as a form of protest against Netanyahu’s handling of the situation in Gaza.

The Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC), a grassroots group that represents Jewish Republicans, has been vocal in its criticism of Harris’s absence. In a recent ad, the RJC questioned Harris’s priorities, suggesting that attending a sorority luncheon instead of Netanyahu’s speech was a misstep.

The RJC’s National Executive Director, Matt Brooks, emphasized the importance of Harris’s presence at the event. As President of the US Senate, Harris’s attendance would have been symbolic of America’s support for its strongest ally. By choosing to skip the speech, Harris has failed what the RJC sees as her first test as a potential presidential candidate.

Interestingly, Harris is not the only member of a national ticket in the 2024 election to miss Netanyahu’s speech. Republican Vice Presidential nominee, Senator JD Vance of Ohio, will also be absent. While some may question their priorities, Vance’s spokesperson cited campaign duties as the reason for his absence.

Furthermore, the RJC’s stance on the 2024 election has been clear. While initially neutral in the GOP presidential nomination race, the group pledged support for former President Trump once he secured the nomination. With a commitment to raise funds to help elect Trump, the RJC emphasized its largest effort ever to mobilize support within the Jewish community for the former president.

In conclusion, Harris’s absence from Netanyahu’s speech has sparked debate and criticism. As the RJC and other groups weigh in on the significance of her decision, it remains to be seen how this will impact her standing in the upcoming election and her relationship with the Jewish community.