President Biden is making his way to Los Angeles for a campaign fundraiser at the residence of Israeli American media mogul Haim Saban, potentially sparking demonstrations related to the U.S. stance on Israel’s conflict with Hamas.
Amid escalating tensions within the Democratic Party over Biden’s backing of Israel in response to Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack, the administration has maintained its support, planning to send additional weapons despite Biden expressing private frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. A draft resolution calling for a temporary cease-fire has been submitted to the United Nations Security Council.
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In California, Democrats are divided on the issue, with previous protests during Biden’s visit to Los Angeles in December calling for a Gaza cease-fire and an end to U.S. support for Israel. Similar demonstrations may occur this time, especially given the event’s host, Haim Saban, being a prominent Israel supporter.
Biden faces the delicate task of not alienating key Democratic constituencies, such as Jewish voters, young people, and people of color. The fundraising event, with tickets costing up to $250,000, involves co-hosts deeply connected to the Jewish community.
As tensions rise, a super PAC supporting former President Trump seizes on the Israel-Hamas conflict, running digital ads targeting social media users in Saban’s ZIP Code. The ads focus on White House officials meeting with Osama Siblani, a Michigan publisher with past praise for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
This marks Biden’s likely final trip to California before Super Tuesday on March 5, a crucial date for primaries. In 2020, his campaign raised $145.4 million from Californians, and for the 2024 presidential bid, the combined supporting groups raised over $42 million in January, boasting a total of $130 million in the bank.
Biden’s campaign has faced challenges, including last year’s entertainment industry strikes impacting fundraising efforts. Despite this, the recent announcement emphasizes the strength of Biden’s grassroots fundraising program.
The President is expected to address an official event in the Southland before heading to the Bay Area for additional fundraisers before leaving the state on Thursday.
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