Eleven years ago, just after departing the Obama administration, I traveled to a Jewish community center in Brooklyn to defend the Iran nuclear deal on a panel organized by US Rep. Hakeem Jeffries. Having recently left the State Department, where I had advocated for the nuclear deal to Congress, specifically in the House of Representatives, I witnessed firsthand the commitment to this critical policy. I observed Jeffries advocating for the deal during a panel event that highlighted both the challenges and the importance of international diplomacy.
That evening, I was moved by what I saw from the presumptive speaker of the House, Jeffries, a moment that will remain significant for his future role. He demonstrated what I believe a great leader should embody when addressing sensitive community concerns. The night in Brooklyn revealed the concerns of Jewish Americans and the passionate engagement of constituents who wanted clarity on Israel policy and the prevention of antisemitism.
What I witnessed that night underscores the intensity of the audience’s reaction to the nuclear agreement. It also highlights the resonance of Hakeem Jeffries’ approach and the statesmanship required in such moments.
To characterize the audience’s response to the deal as overwritten would be a vast understatement. Yet, Hakeem Jeffries did not react with indifference or hostility. Instead, he maintained composure while listening deeply to his constituents’ concerns. Jeffries asked for calm from the crowd, approached them with openness, and showed genuine empathy for their worries. In his words, he confronted a complex decision with measured consideration and leadership.
During this event, Jeffries exhibited a rarity among politicians: the ability to remain serene while addressing emotional and contentious issues. Rather than abandoning his principles to appease a restless crowd or dismissing their valid concerns as unimportant, he engaged with humility and respect. He spoke about the significant weight of the decision before him and demonstrated the qualities of a true statesman.
Jeffries supported Obama-era Iran nuclear deal
Weeks later, Jeffries publicly endorsed the Iran nuclear deal, and I believe the earlier panel discussion played a meaningful role in shaping this decision. However, assessing his qualifications as speaker for the speakership reveals deeper qualities. In the midst of a contentious political debate over complex policy, Jeffries demonstrated respect for his constituents, seriousness about the task at hand, and thoughtful consideration that underscored his leadership capabilities.
Following this decision, which did not enjoy the support of his district, Jeffries was overwhelmingly reelected in the subsequent election. I attribute this success to his courteous engagement with the issue—his ability to understand his constituents, hear their voices, and respect their perspectives earned them his support.
As an American Jew with extensive experience working with Congress on Jewish community concerns and foreign policy, I am energetically optimistic about Jeffries’ tenure as speaker, particularly regarding America’s relationship with Israel and the challenge of confronting antisemitism.
The Democratic Party has recently experienced a vibrant debate about what it means to support Israel and how to distinguish between legitimate criticism and antisemitic rhetoric. In the past election cycle, several Democratic candidates argued that Israel should be viewed as an American adversary, that certain language toward American Jewish supporters was not antisemitic, and that the threat from Iran is exaggerated. Consequently, the Jewish community voiced legitimate concerns about the party’s direction on these critical issues.
This is precisely why I have spoken out strongly against the rising tide of antisemitic, anti-Israel rhetoric within the Democratic Party. My arguments have resonated well at Democratic gatherings, even among those who disagree with my stance. I firmly believe the Democratic Party functions as a broad coalition, and the party’s growing inclusivity represents a significant voting advantage. We are engaged in internal debate that must be resolved, but we cannot abandon the party we serve if we wish to influence its direction.
Midterm results heartening on issues of Israel, antisemitism
The recent midterm results offer encouraging signs regarding Israel and antisemitism. The major Democratic victories elevated a diverse group of lawmakers across the party to office. American Jews of varied viewpoints continue to have representation within the Democratic platform.
This outcome validates Jeffries’ potential role as speaker. When serving in the chair, he will have a caucus large enough to grant him significant authority to manage internal debates about Israel policy and antisemitism, mirroring his composure during the town hall event a decade earlier.
The midterm numbers reinforce this point. While numerous far-left Squad members and Democratic Socialists of America-aligned candidates are unfavorable to Israel, there are also approximately 15 moderate Blue Dog members who balance this sentiment. The Congressional Progressive Caucus will have roughly 125 members, and the New Democrat Coalition will field about 140. We anticipate Democrats may secure upwards of 260 seats—a substantial majority that would provide Jeffries considerable negotiating flexibility.
The magnitude of Tuesday’s victory should reassure American Jews about the Democratic Party’s future trajectory. The party is not being consumed by a far-left anti-Israel faction, contrary to Republican claims. Instead, the Jewish community’s willingness to defend its values and resist antisemitism has demonstrated tangible impact. This collective action has isolated extremists and supported those seeking a more constructive path forward. We must continue this effort, as it is proving effective.
Therefore, we now witness the emergence of soon-to-be Speaker Jeffries, a leader who deeply cares about the Jewish community, America’s relationship with Israel, and confronting antisemitism. While debates over these issues within the Democratic Party will persist, it is now safe to say that the most hostile forces will have to participate in the dialogue with a statesman like Jeffries, and they will find that perspective there as well.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media.