JD Vance to court Jewish conservatives as doubts linger over his Israel views and ties to Carlson
US Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to deliver a closed-door address to the Republican Jewish Coalition on Monday. His appearance comes amid criticism from pro-Israel conservatives over his recent suggestion that Israeli officials manipulate US opinion to prolong the war with Iran, and his failure to disavow commentator Tucker Carlson, who has platformed white supremacist Nick Fuentes. The meeting reflects broader anxieties about anti-Semitism in the run-up to the midterm elections.
Vance’s Monday address to the Republican Jewish Coalition comes after months of friction with pro-Israel conservatives. In July, he told podcaster Joe Rogan that some Israeli officials were “manipulating” American public opinion to prolong the war with Iran, a remark that drew sharp rebukes. He had previously criticized Israeli cabinet members for opposing Trump’s peace efforts, warning they should not attack their “only powerful ally.”
The closed-door format reflects the sensitivity of the moment. RJC member Terry Platt admitted confusion over Vance’s “true sentiments,” while broader polling shows support for Israel slipping, particularly among Democrats, following the Gaza campaign. The vice president’s ties to Tucker Carlson, who hosted white supremacist Nick Fuentes, remain a lingering concern for Jewish activists.
This address could shape how Jewish conservatives and pro-Israel voters perceive the Republican Party ahead of the midterms. If Vance fails to reassure the coalition, it may deepen internal divisions and weaken GOP claims of being the staunchest ally of Israel. Conversely, a strong performance could consolidate support for his 2028 ambitions. The episode may also influence public discourse on anti-Semitism, as both parties compete to define their stance on Jewish safety and US-Israel relations.