In a strategic move to garner support from pro-Palestinian voters, Sen. Bernie Sanders has voiced his confidence that Vice President Kamala Harris will adopt a more nuanced stance on the Middle East conflict if she becomes president.

Sanders seeks to persuade critical voters to back Harris, suggesting that her election would increase the likelihood of changes in U.S. policy regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as the Washington Examiner reports.

Despite current stated similarities in policy between Harris and President Joe Biden, Sanders emphasized the potential for change if the current VP is able to take the helm.

Criticism from pro-Palestinian groups has come as Harris has yet to demonstrate a clear departure from the Biden administration's pro-Israel policies, posing a potential roadblock to her election hopes.

Sanders Urges Voter Mobilization

Addressing the issue on X, formerly known as Twitter, Sanders urged pro-Palestinian voters to support Harris, warning against abstaining.

He expressed his belief that Trump winning would be a setback. Sanders, who has historically disagreed with aspects of the Biden-Harris stance on Gaza, maintained that supporting Harris represents a better chance of shifting U.S. policy.

Prominent anti-Israel factions in Michigan, like Arab American PAC and the "Abandon Harris" movement, have thus far withheld endorsement of Harris, highlighting her challenges in critical battleground states.

Their refusal to support Harris could significantly affect the outcome in Michigan, adding pressure on Harris's campaign to address these voters' concerns.

Sanders acknowledged the shift in Harris's political approach since their progressive alignment during the 2020 primary. He noted her adoption of select progressive policies, such as supporting a $15 minimum wage and expanding the child tax credit yet emphasized the need for further alignment on Gaza.

Harris's Shift from Progressive to Centrist

In emphasizing the broader stakes of the election, Sanders highlighted vital issues beyond the Gaza conflict. He stressed that a Trump presidency could negatively impact not only international relations but also domestic policies on abortion, climate, and tax.

Despite differences, Sanders reiterated his outlook for a productive alliance with Harris if she becomes president. He expressed anticipation for collaborating on her economic policies and broader initiatives within her first months in office.

Sanders advised voters to consider the wider implications of the election beyond individual policy disagreements. He acknowledged the passionate views on Gaza but underscored that other significant policy areas were also at risk.

Potential Impact on U.S. Policy in the Middle East

He conveyed his intention to work with Harris to seek changes in policy regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggesting that a Harris administration could present improved diplomacy opportunities. Sanders firmly believes that Harris's election provides a better platform for negotiations and policy redirection than a continued or renewed Trump presidency.

The alignment between Sanders and Harris evolved after the primary season, with Harris eventually adopting several economic positions Sanders championed. This background reinforced Sanders's belief in potential policy shifts under Harris's leadership.

Sanders's appeal focused on a comprehensive strategy, advising against a monolithic focus on any single issue, no matter how significant. He stressed the necessity of defeating Trump to safeguard numerous policy advancements and potential changes.

Balancing Domestic and International Priorities

While the focus on Gaza remains pivotal, Sanders's message highlighted the interconnected nature of political decisions across both domestic and international spheres. He advocated for a strategic approach, balancing immediate electoral objectives with longer-term policy goals.

In summary, Sanders's comments underscore a strategic call to action for voters concerned about the Middle East and other critical issues.

He urged a collective effort to influence future policy directions under Harris, emphasizing the urgency and importance of the upcoming election in shaping the U.S.'s path forward.