Members of the Democratic Party are facing internal conflict following a tragic mass shooting in Sydney, Australia. The attack occurred on December 14, 2025, during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, resulting in at least 15 fatalities and numerous injuries. Australian authorities have labeled this incident an act of terrorism targeting the Jewish community.
Democratic Responses to the Sydney Terror Attack
The response from Democratic leaders was immediate and vocal. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the importance of combating antisemitism. He stated, “Antisemitism is a scourge around the world that must be condemned loudly and fought vigorously.” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries echoed this sentiment, asserting that eradicating antisemitism is a collective responsibility.
- California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed solidarity with the Jewish community against rising antisemitic violence.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker declared that antisemitism has no place in the world.
- Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez shared her horror at the attack, stressing a moral obligation to combat rising antisemitism.
- Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin called for vigorous condemnation of hate and justice for the perpetrators.
Internal Party Fractures Over Israel Policy
Despite this unified response to the Sydney attack, Senator John Fetterman voiced concerns about the growing anti-Israel rhetoric within the party. He warned that the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which escalated after a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, is causing significant divisions among Democrats.
Fetterman criticized the party’s left wing for a perceived disregard for condemning terrorism. He remarked during an interview, “I can’t imagine why so many parts of people in my party continue to back away from condemning these kinds of horrific acts of terrorism.” His comments highlight an ongoing discord regarding U.S. military aid and support for Israel amidst the conflict.
Tensions from the Israel-Hamas Conflict
The backdrop of the Democratic Party’s internal strife is the Israel-Hamas conflict, which has resulted in grave casualties. Since the initial attack, nearly 1,200 Israelis lost their lives, and over 250 were taken hostage. The Israeli military response has reportedly claimed the lives of more than 70,000 Palestinians, according to sources in Gaza.
The conflict has led to symbolic resolutions within the party advocating for an arms embargo against Israel, further complicating party unity as they approach the 2026 elections.
As the Democratic Party navigates its response to both antisemitism and the complexities of its stance on Israel, the implications of the Sydney attack may shape their electoral strategy in the upcoming years.
