BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:That we reaffirm our strong support for the Jewish people and our truest ally in the Middle East, the Nation of Israel; the recognition of the current and historical capitol [sic] of Israel being in Jerusalem; and the location of the embassy of the United States now finally in Jerusalem where it should have been and where it should remain.
A simple resolution expressing the New Hampshire House’s support for Israel unleashed complex emotions on the House floor last week, with supporters sharing tearful stories and opponents labeling the nation an “apartheid state.”For Democrats, who overwhelmingly voted against the pro-Israel resolution, the troubling issue of antisemitism within their ranks was raised yet again.Democrats tried tabling, amending, and indefinitely postponing the resolution, all in an effort to keep it from passing. The final vote was 175 to 107 in favor, with just 15 Democrats joining the Republicans’ unanimous support.Progressives, led by Democrat-turned-independent Rep. Tony Labranche, opposed the resolution for being too pro-Israel. In remarks from the floor, Labranche claimed Israel has “long illegally occupied Palestinian lands” and cited nationally-known progressive groups to label Israel “an apartheid state.”