Key primaries in Texas and NC feature Iran, Israel, and Hitler’s gun on the ballot

Tuesday's primaries in North Carolina and Texas are showcasing the shifting political dynamics surrounding Israel, Iran, and gun culture. Candidates like Nida Allam and Frederick Haynes challenge traditional foreign policy stances, while figures like Brandon Herrera stir controversy with their far-right views on gun rights and Nazi imagery.

Tuesday's primaries in North Carolina and Texas are testing political dynamics amid controversies surrounding Israel, Iran, and gun culture. In North Carolina's 4th District, historical support for Israel is shifting, creating a contentious environment in local politics. Democratic Representative Valerie Foushee has distanced herself from major pro-Israel lobbying organizations, including AIPAC, which invested over $2 million in her 2022 campaign. Foushee also declined to attend Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's congressional speech in 2024.

Foushee’s primary opponent, Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam, has criticized Israel openly and received significant financial support from the recently established American Priorities PAC. This PAC, focused on opposition to Israeli influence, has contributed over $1 million to Allam's campaign, creating record-level spending for the state. Allam aligns with progressive left voices, including Senator Bernie Sanders, while Foushee benefits from support by Governor Roy Cooper, who maintains connections within the state's Jewish electorate. Foushee’s campaign has faced additional scrutiny through ties to organizations such as Article One PAC, which have contributed to her efforts to remain in office.

Meanwhile, Allam has attempted outreach to local Jewish communities in her district, highlighting a complex dynamic between candidates and their positions on Israel. The primaries in North Carolina illustrate growing political polarization, with candidates taking opposing stances on foreign policy and lobbying influences.

Texas Senate Primaries and Anti-Israel Sentiment

In Texas, the Senate primaries have attracted attention due to the candidacy of Frederick Haynes III, a Baptist minister critical of Israel, campaigning for the 30th District. Backed by the American Priorities PAC, Haynes has accused Israel of systemic discrimination, framing it as a modern apartheid state, and has criticized U.S. military involvement in Gaza. His positions resonate with some controversial figures known for antisemitic rhetoric. Haynes has received substantial donations, making him a dominant fundraising presence in the Dallas area, and his anti-Israel stance has created tension within the local Jewish community.

Texas GOP Primaries and Far-Right Gun Advocacy

In the Texas GOP primaries, gun influencer and manufacturer Brandon Herrera, known as "The AK Guy," challenges incumbent Representative Tony Gonzales. Herrera, recognized for his provocative online commentary, has referenced Nazi iconography, generating controversy while appealing to fringe voters. Gonzales faces vulnerability due to a scandal involving a staffer, with Herrera leveraging the situation to promote his campaign. Herrera has emphasized strong gun rights, especially following a mass shooting in Austin connected to Iranian tensions, and has used the incident to reinforce anti-Iran messaging.

Influence of PACs and Political Spending

Groups like AIPAC and the United Democracy PAC continue to fund candidates, although their influence faces challenges from emerging anti-Israel PACs. The Anti-Zionist America PAC supports candidates opposing pro-Israel spending, including challengers like Zeeshan Hafeez against Representative Colin Allred in Texas' 33rd District and Mark Newgent against Representative Keith Self in Texas' 3rd District. Endorsements from figures such as Haynes signal a growing anti-Israel sentiment across both Democratic and Republican candidates.

Implications for American Jews and U.S. Foreign Policy

The results of the North Carolina and Texas primaries could impact U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Israel. Rising divisions between pro-Israel and anti-Israel movements highlight increasing political isolation for American Jews. These races will serve as indicators of the continuing influence of pro-Israel PACs in U.S. elections amid ongoing tensions with Iran and debates over Israel's role in the Middle East. Observers are closely monitoring how these primaries reflect shifts toward more radical political positions and the potential long-term effects on American politics.

Sources:

• Politico
• The New York Times
• The Washington Post
• Iran, Israel and Hitler’s gun are all on the ballot in key primaries in Texas and NC on Tuesday

Author: Grace Ellison
Grace Ellison is a journalist focusing on environmental issues and sustainability. She has experience publishing international reports and participating in documentary projects.